AP US Gov - Core Constitutional Concepts

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Define Federalism and explain the significance of the 10th Amendment.

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Federalism is the constitutional division of power between the national government and state governments. The 10th Amendment codifies this, stating that powers not delegated to the U.S. nor prohibited to the states are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.

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What is 'Checks and Balances'?

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A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the others, ensuring no single branch becomes too powerful. Examples include the Presidential veto, Congressional impeachment, and Judicial review.

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Describe the ' Necessary and Proper' Clause.

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Also known as the Elastic Clause (Article I, Section 8), it grants Congress the authority to pass all laws necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers. It is the constitutional basis for implied powers.

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What is 'Judicial Review'?

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The power of the federal courts to determine whether a law or executive action is constitutional. Established by *Marbury v. Madison* (1803), it allows the judiciary to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution.

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Determine the difference between Civil Liberties and Civil Rights.

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Civil Liberties are protections from government abuse (freedoms *from* interference), such as the First Amendment. Civil Rights are positive actions the government must take to ensure equal treatment under the law, often involving discrimination prevention.