Chapter 2: The Constitution Flashcards
Articles of Confederation
sent to the states for ratification in 1777, these were the first attempt at a new American government. It was later decided that the Articles restricted national government too much, and they were replaced by the Constitution
Limited Government
A political system in which the powers of the government are restricted to prevent tyranny by protecting property
Shay’s Rebellion
An uprising of about 4,000 men in Massachusetts in 1786 and 1787 to protest oppressive laws and gain payment of war debts. The unrest prompted calls for a new constitution.
monarchy
king/queen government
Republicanism
the belief that a form of government in which the interests of the people are represented through elected leaders
“consent of the governed”
the idea that government gains its legitimacy through regular elections in which the people living under that government participate to elect their leaders
Natural Rights
rights guaranteed by the US constitution (life, liberty, pursuit of happiness)
social contract
the people recognize the authority of the state to govern over them, and in turn, the government protects the rights and freedoms of the people
federalists
favored strong national government
antifederalist
favored state governments
power
ability to influence others (often linked to religion and wealth
sovereignty
right to rule
