AP Government & Politics Vocabulary

4. of Rights First 10 amendments protecting individual liberties; added to satisfy Anti-Federalists.
5. Rights Inalienable rights that all people have; featured in the Declaration of Independence.
6. of Confederation First governing document where states held most of the power.
13. Congress A legislature with two houses: Senate and House of Representatives.
15. Democracy A government where elected representatives reflect the will of the majority.
19. Contract An agreement among people to give up some freedoms to maintain order.
20. of Powers Each branch of government has specific and separate powers.
21. Legal approval of the Constitution.
22. Powers Powers shared by both federal and state governments (like taxing).
24. Government A government’s power is restricted by law; the Constitution limits what it can and cannot do.
25. Clause National laws are above state laws.
26. Amendment Says powers not delegated to the federal government go to the states.
28. A group with shared interests trying to influence policy.
29. No. 1 Essay opposing the Constitution; favored local state governments.
30. Grants Federal money given to states with specific spending requirements.
31. Supported the Constitution and a strong national government.

1. of Independence Document drafted by Jefferson that outlines natural rights and supports popular sovereignty.
2. A government type ruled by representatives and a constitution.
3. to the Constitution States the goals of the Constitution like justice and liberty.
6. Opposed the Constitution; favored stronger state governments.
7. Sharing of power between national and state governments.
8. The process of changing or adding to the Constitution.
9. No. 10 Essay by Madison supporting a large republic to control factions.
10. Powers Powers given specifically to the federal government in the Constitution.
11. and Proper Clause Gives Congress flexibility to pass laws needed to carry out its powers.
12. Federal requirements that states must follow.
14. Created a stronger federal government and established new institutions.
16. Sovereignty Government power comes from the people; they can change the government if needed.
17. and Balances Each branch can limit the powers of the others.
18. No. 51 Essay explaining separation of powers and checks and balances.
23. Grants Federal money given to states with few restrictions.
27. Powers Powers kept by the states (like education and driver’s licenses).