Front

What is the principle of Separation of Powers?

Back

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Front

What are Checks and Balances?

Back

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful, including mechanisms like veto power and Senate confirmations.

Front

What is Federalism?

Back

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, exemplified by the Tenth Amendment and the Elastic Clause.

Front

What does Popular Sovereignty mean?

Back

The principle that the authority of a state and its government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

Front

What is Limited Government?

Back

A political system where the legalized force is restricted through delegated and enumerated powers.

Front

What is the Rule of Law?

Back

The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to the law that is fairly applied and enforced.

Front

What is Judicial Review?

Back

The power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the constitution, established in Marbury v. Madison.

Front

What is the purpose of the U.S. Constitution?

Back

To establish the framework of the government and outline the rights of the citizens.

Front

What is the Bill of Rights?

Back

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee individual rights.

Front

What is the Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause)

Back

A clause in the Constitution that grants Congress the power to pass all laws necessary and proper for carrying out the enumerated list of powers.