U.S. Government and Constitution Basics

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Separation of Powers

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The government is divided into three branches (legislative, executive, judicial) so no one has too much power.

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Checks & Balances

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Each branch of government can limit the power of the others to keep everything fair and balanced.

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Constitution

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The highest law of the United States that explains how the government works and what rights people have.

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Unconstitutional

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When a law or action goes against the Constitution, it is not allowed.

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Federalism

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A system where power is shared between the national (federal) government and state governments.

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Articles of Confederation

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The first set of rules for the U.S. government before the Constitution; it was weak and later replaced.

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Bill of Rights

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The first 10 amendments (changes) to the Constitution that protect people's freedoms, like free speech and religion.

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Anti-Federalist

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A person who did not want a strong federal (national) government and was against the Constitution.

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Federalists

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People who supported the Constitution and wanted a strong national government.

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Constitutional Convention

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A meeting in 1787 where leaders created the U.S. Constitution.