Midterm Study guide Flashcards
Define Separation of Powers
The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.
This concept is crucial in preventing abuse of power.
What is Direct Democracy?
A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly.
This contrasts with representative democracy, where elected officials make decisions.
Define Democracy
A system of government in which the citizens exercise power directly or elect representatives.
Democracies are characterized by fair and free elections.
What is Capitalism?
An economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production.
Capitalism relies on market competition and consumer choice.
What were the Greek City States?
Independent cities, IE. Roseville, sac.
Major city-states included Athens and Sparta.
Who were the Hebrews?
An ancient people who were the source of the development of Judaism.
They are considered the ancestors of modern Jews.
What are ‘Philosopher Kings’?
Rulers who govern based on philosophical principles and wisdom, instead of blood.
Plato believed that only those who truly understand justice should rule.
Define Roman Law
The legal system of ancient Rome, which has influenced many modern legal systems.
It is known for concepts such as ‘innocent until proven guilty.’
What is the Social Contract?
An implicit agreement among the members of a society to cooperate for social benefits, such as protection and social order.
Key philosophers include Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau.
Name the Three Branches of Government
- Legislative
- Executive
- Judicial
This division is essential for maintaining checks and balances in government.
What are Unalienable Rights?
Rights that cannot be taken away or denied, often cited as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
These concepts are foundational in American political philosophy.
Define Checks and Balances
A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful by providing each branch with the means to limit the powers of the others.
This is a key principle in the U.S. Constitution.
What is a Monarchy?
A form of government with a monarch at the head.
Monarchies can be absolute or constitutional.
What is a Constitutional Monarchy?
A system of governance in which a monarch’s powers are limited by a constitution or legislative body.
Examples include the United Kingdom and Sweden.
What was the Stamp Act?
A law passed by the British Parliament in 1765 that imposed a tax on all printed materials in the American colonies.
It was one of the catalysts for the American Revolution.
What was the Tennis Court Oath?
A pledge made by members of the Third Estate in 1789 not to disband until a new constitution was established for France.
This event marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution.
What is the First Estate?
The clergy in pre-revolutionary France, representing about 1% of the population.
They held significant power and privilege.
What is the Second Estate?
The nobility in pre-revolutionary France, making up about 2% of the population.
They also enjoyed many privileges and rights.
What is the Third Estate?
The common people of France, comprising about 97% of the population, including peasants, workers, and the bourgeoisie.
They were the primary force behind the French Revolution.
What was the Concert of Europe?
A system of alliances among European nations to maintain peace and stability after the Napoleonic Wars.
It aimed to prevent the rise of another powerful leader like Napoleon.
What was the Estates General?
A legislative assembly in pre-revolutionary France that represented the three estates.
It was convened by King Louis XVI in 1789.
Who was the First Consul?
A title held by Napoleon Bonaparte after he established himself as the leader of France.
This marked the beginning of his control over France.
What was the Congress of Vienna?
A conference held in 1814-1815 to restore order in Europe after the fall of Napoleon.
It aimed to redraw the map of Europe and establish a balance of power.
What was the Continental System under Napoleon?
An economic blockade against Britain aimed at weakening its economy by prohibiting trade with Europe.
It ultimately failed and harmed European economies.