Foundational Government Principles + Articles of Confederation

Define: Constitution

• A constitution is a type of government official who explains how everyone does their job.

• A constitution is a document that lists all the laws in a country.
• A constitution is a set of guidelines for presidential behavior.

• A constitution is a document that outlines the framework of a government.

After the American Revolution, each state began making its own Constitutions. Which document inspired them?

• The Declaration of Independence
• The Articles of Confederation
• The Bill of Rights
• The Federalist Papers

Which quote from the Declaration of Independence was most likely the most inspirational to all states making their own constitutions?

• "To be or not to be, that is the question."

• "...life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

• "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."

• "It's over 9,000!"

Define: Popular Sovereignty

• Citizens have no role in decision-making.
• The government holds all political power. despite ideas such as the popular vote

• Political power is derived from economic status.
• The idea that the people are the ultimate source of political power.

Which branch of government makes the laws?

• Executive branch
• Legislative branch
• Administrative branch
• Judicial branch

Define: Governor

• A governor is a federal official.
• A governor is the leader of a country.
• A governor is a type of plant.
• A governor is the head of a state or province.

Define: Federalism

• Federalism is a system of government that divides power between a central government and state governments.

• Federalism is a system where all power is held by a single entity, namely either the government or the president.

• Federalism refers to the complete absence of government.
• Federalism is a type of economic system focused on trade regulations.

The first national constitution for the United States was known as:

• Articles of Confederation
• Constitution
• Bill of Rights
• Federalist Papers

What was the main flaw of the Articles of Confederation?

• Strong central government with full taxation powers.
• Ability to regulate trade between states effectively.
• Unanimous consent required for all legislative decisions.
• Weak central government with no power to tax or regulate commerce.

Why was the Central Government initially weak in United States history?

• The Central Government was weak due to the trouble seen from King George III, who had too much power.

• The Central Government was weak because the states wanted to tax everything they felt like.

• The Central Government was somewhat strong because they wanted to make sure their rules were enforced.

• The Central Government was weak because they felt like trying out something different.