American Government Quiz Unit 2

The concept of checks and balances refers to a system where the powers of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches overlap, allowing each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the other branches. This system ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful, preventing any potential abuse of power. Through checks and balances, the branches can exercise their authority while also keeping each other in check, promoting accountability and safeguarding against tyranny.

The basic principle of the American system of government is that the executive, legislative, and judicial powers are divided among three independent and co-equal branches of government. This principle is known as the separation of powers. It ensures that no single branch has too much power and provides checks and balances to prevent abuse of power. Each branch has its own specific roles and responsibilities, which helps maintain a system of government that is fair and accountable to the people.

The concept of the rule of law holds that government and its officers are always subject to the law. This means that no one, including those in positions of power, is above the law and everyone must abide by it. It ensures that the law is applied equally to all individuals and provides a framework for a just and fair society. The rule of law is a fundamental principle in democratic societies as it helps to prevent abuse of power and protects individual rights and freedoms.

The correct answer is Preamble. The Preamble is an introductory statement in the Constitution that outlines the goals and purposes of the document. It sets the tone for the rest of the Constitution and highlights the principles on which the government is based. The Preamble states, "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

The given answer "articles" is correct because the unamended constitution consists of 7 articles.

Judicial review refers to the power of courts to determine if the actions of the government are in accordance with the provisions of the constitution. It allows the judiciary to review the constitutionality of laws, executive orders, and other government actions. This power ensures that the government operates within the boundaries set by the constitution and protects individual rights and liberties. Through judicial review, the courts can declare a law or action unconstitutional and strike it down, thus acting as a check on the other branches of government.

The correct answer is "unconstitutional." This term refers to something that goes against the principles and provisions stated in a constitution. When something is declared unconstitutional, it is deemed illegal, null and void, and of no force and effect because it violates the fundamental laws and rights outlined in the constitution.

The term "delegated powers" refers to the powers that are specifically granted to the National Government by the constitution. These powers are explicitly mentioned and assigned to the federal government, such as the power to regulate commerce, declare war, and coin money. Delegated powers are distinct from reserved powers, which are those powers that are reserved for the states, and concurrent powers, which are powers that are shared by both the federal government and the states. The concept of delegated powers is essential for understanding the division of power between the federal government and the states in a federal system of government.

The Bill of Rights refers to the first 10 amendments in the constitution. These amendments were added to the United States Constitution to protect individual rights and liberties. They guarantee fundamental freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to bear arms, as well as protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, cruel and unusual punishment, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights is an essential part of the constitution that ensures the preservation of individual liberties and limits the power of the government.

The correct answer is divisions of power. Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and regional or state governments. The basic principle of federalism is the division of governmental powers on a geographic basis. This means that certain powers are delegated to the central government, while others are reserved for the state or regional governments. This division ensures a balance of power and allows for local autonomy while maintaining a unified national government.