click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
S.S. Unit 6
U.S. Government and Constitution
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| democracy | A form of government where the citizens have the power to choose their leaders and participate in decision-making. |
| Articles of Confederation | The first attempt at a national government in the United States, which had weaknesses and was eventually replaced by the U.S. Constitution. |
| U.S. Constitution | A set of basic principles and law that determine the power and duties of the government. |
| Preamble | The introduction to the U.S. Constitution, stating the purpose and goals of the Constitution. |
| Articles | The main body of the U.S. Constitution, outlining the power and responsibilities of the three branches of government. |
| Amendment | A change or addition to the U.S. Constitution. |
| Congress | The group of elected officials who makes laws and decisions for our country. |
| Supreme Court | The highest court in the United States. |
| President | The leader of the United States and head of the executive branch. |
| checks and balances | The system that prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. |
| James Madison | Known as the "Father of the Constitution" because he played a big role in writing it. |
| George Mason | Insisted a Bill of Rights should be included with the Constitution. |