The constitution and American democracy Flashcards
(13 cards)
How many articles are in the US constitution?
7 articles
What is the purpose of the Preamble in the U.S. Constitution?
It introduces the Constitution and outlines the goals of the government.
What do the first three articles of the U.S. Constitution establish?
The three branches of government—Legislative (Article I), Executive (Article II), and Judicial (Article III).
What is the function of checks and balances in the Constitution?
To prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
What is addressed in Articles IV through VII of the U.S. Constitution?
The relationship between states and the federal government, the Constitution’s supremacy, and the processes for amendment and ratification.
What does Article VI of the Constitution declare?
That the Constitution is the supreme law of the land.
What is the Constitution Annotated?
A legal analysis and interpretation of the U.S. Constitution based on Supreme Court rulings and historical practices.
How are state governments typically structured?
Like the federal government, with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.
Does the U.S. Constitution require states to have three branches of government?
No, but it does require all states to have a “republican form” of government.
What are the two main tiers of local government in most states?
Counties (or boroughs/parishes) and municipalities (cities/towns).
What are counties called in Alaska and Louisiana?
Boroughs in Alaska and parishes in Louisiana.
What are some examples of special districts in local government?
School districts and fire protection districts.
What is the legislative body of Indiana called?
The Indiana General Assembly.
