Checks and Balances

System ensuring no single branch of government gains excessive power.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments to the US Constitution guaranteeing individual liberties.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the US, replaced by the current Constitution.

Conference Committees

Temporary bodies that are formed to resolve differences between House and Senate versions of a bill.

Due Process

Fair treatment through the normal judicial system.

Confederal System

A form of government in which states hold power over a limited national government.

Baker v. Carr

Case that established the principle of one person, one vote.

Amicus Curiae

'Friend of the court' briefs that may be sent to support the argument of one side in a case.

Divided Government

One party controls the presidency while the other party controls one or both houses of Congress.

Bills of Attainder

Laws that punish a person without a jury trial.

Clear and Present Danger

Doctrine adopted by the Supreme Court to determine under what circumstances limits can be placed on First Amendment freedoms.

Civil Liberties

Basic individual rights protected by law from unjust governmental interference.

Direct Democracy

A form of government in which citizens rule directly and not through representatives.

Constitutional Convention

Meeting in 1787 that produced the new Constitution of the United States.

Double Jeopardy

Being tried twice for the same crime, which is prohibited by the 5th Amendment.

Civil Rights

Rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.

Delegated Powers

Powers specifically given to the federal government by the US Constitution.

Brown v. Board of Education

Supreme Court decision that declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

Bicameral Legislature

A two-house legislature, as seen in the US Congress.

Amendment Process

Procedure for making changes to the Constitution.

Concurrent Powers

Powers shared by both the state and federal governments.

Anti-Federalists

Advocates for states' rights who opposed the Constitution.

Dealignment

A decline in party loyalties that reduces long-term party commitment.

Caucus

A meeting of party members to select delegates backing one or another primary candidate.

Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission

Supreme Court decision allowing unlimited independent political spending by corporations and unions.