US Government Flash Cards

Separation of Powers

• The division of governmental authority among the three branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

• A system where the executive branch has complete control over the legislative and judicial branches.

• A method of ensuring that all government decisions are made by a single authority.

• A principle that allows for the merging of powers between the branches of government.

Executive Branch

• Headed by the President and responsible for enforcing the laws of the land.

• Responsible for making laws and policies.

• Oversees the judicial system and interprets laws.

• Manages foreign relations and treaties.

Legislative Branch

• The law-making body of the federal government, composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

• The executive branch responsible for enforcing laws.

• The judicial branch that interprets laws and administers justice.

• A committee that oversees the federal budget and spending.

Judicial Branch

• Interprets the meaning of laws and determines whether they are constitutional.

• Creates laws and regulations for the country.

• Enforces laws and ensures public safety.

• Advises the President on legal matters.

Checks and Balances

• A system in which each branch of government can limit the power of the other two branches.

• A method for electing government officials.

• A way to increase the power of the executive branch.

• A process for amending the Constitution.

Federalism

• A system where power is concentrated in a central government.

• A system of government in which power is divided between a central national government and smaller regional governments (such as states).

• A political system where all power is held by local governments.

• A form of government that allows for absolute monarchy.

Liberalism

• A political ideology that emphasizes individual freedom and limited government intervention.

• A political ideology that advocates for a free market without any regulations.

• A political ideology that emphasizes the role of government in addressing social and economic inequalities, providing a safety net for those in need, and regulating the economy.

• A political ideology that promotes the idea of a strong military and national sovereignty.

Conservatism

• A political ideology that emphasizes a larger role for government in the economy and individual lives, with an emphasis on collective welfare.

• A political ideology that advocates for a mixed economy with significant government intervention.

• A political ideology that emphasizes a smaller role for government in the economy and individual lives, with an emphasis on individual liberty.

• A political ideology that supports complete government control over all aspects of life.

Right-leaning

• Generally associated with socially conservative policies and less government regulation.

• Promotes progressive social policies and increased government intervention.

• Advocates for a mixed economy with equal government and private sector roles.

• Supports radical changes to the political system and economy.

Left-leaning

• Generally associated with liberal policies that create a greater social safety net and increased government regulation of the economy.

• Typically focused on free-market principles and minimal government intervention.

• Often advocates for traditional values and limited social programs.

• Usually emphasizes individualism and personal responsibility over collective welfare.