Key Terms Review - Topic 3-Lessons 1 and 2

Front

This is the constitutional division of power between the national (federal) government and the 50 state governments.

Back

Federalism

Front

The term used to describe a legislative body, such as the United States Congress, which has two branches or chambers.

Back

Bicameral

Front

This concept, outlined by enlightenment philosopher Baron de Montesquieu, refers to the division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from concentrating too much power.

Back

Separation of Powers

Front

The general idea behind this concept is that government can and should be legally restricted in its powers by a founding or established written document.

Back

Constitutionalism

Front

A system which allows each branch of the U.S. government to amend or veto acts of another branch so as to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power.

Back

Checks and Balances

Front

The idea that there should be clear restrictions on government and its rulers in order to protect the natural rights of man is best described by which term?

Back

Limited Government

Front

The principle that the authority of a state and its government is created, sustained, and limited entirely by the consent of its people is known as?

Back

Popular Sovereignty

Front

A constitutional right for the Executive Branch to reject a decision or law made by the Legislative Branch.

Back

veto

Front

What can federal courts declare if a federal or state law is not in line or in agreement with the Constitution of the United States of America?

Back

Unconstitutional

Front

What term is used to describe the U.S. courts that are subordinate to, and whose decisions are subject to review by, the Supreme Court of the United States?

Back

Inferior Courts