foundational terms, core democratic principles, and the structure of the U.S. Constitution for the AP Gov exam.
20 cards
Front
Define Democracy
Back
A system of government where power is vested in the citizens, who exercise it directly or through elected representatives. In the U.S., this takes the form of a representative democracy.
Front
Define Limited Government
Back
The principle that the powers of government are restricted by the Constitution and laws to protect individual rights. No one is above the law, not even elected leaders.
Front
Define Representative Democracy
Back
A form of government where citizens elect officials to represent their interests and make laws on their behalf, rather than voting directly on every issue.
Front
The Articles of Confederation
Back
The first constitution of the United States (1781-1789). It created a weak central government with no power to tax or regulate commerce, leading to its replacement by the Constitution.
Front
Shays' Rebellion
Back
A 1786-87 uprising of debt-ridden farmers in Massachusetts. It highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and convinced many leaders that a stronger central government was needed.
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