AP Gov Exam Review Units 1-4

Name an event from 1913 and 2017. Yes, there is over a hundred years of data on the WRM . . . be creative and explore.

- 1890-1925: The Progressive Era begins. Women from all classes and backgrounds enter public life. Women's roles expand and result in an increasing politicization of women. Consequently the issue of woman suffrage becomes part of mainstream politics.

Explain the extent to which governmental branches can hold the bureaucracy accountable given the competing interest of Congress, the president, and the federal courts.

- Formal and informal powers of Congress, the president, and the courts over the bureaucracy are used to maintain its accountability.

Explain how this document is relatable to the Declaration of Independence. Use two examples from each document to backup your response.

-"The Declaration of Independence" and the Declaration of Sentiments Urged Equal Rights for Women are alike, because both documents begin by saying "When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary"(Stanton and Jefferson) then, after a few paragraphs, both document present a list of grievances.

Describe the composition of the federal bureaucracy.

-15 executive departments, hundreds of agencies, bureaus and boards. Also consists of government corporations that are different in that they charge for their services

How can dissenting opinions play a role after a case is decided? Provide an example.

-A dissenting opinion is different from the concurring opinion, which agrees with the Court's decision but provides an explanation that differs from the majority opinion. A dissenting opinion is not an attempt to change the minds of the Court's majority because the Court has already reached a final decision before the dissenting opinion is written. Rather, the dissenter hopes to arouse public opinion against the majority opinion. Justice Harlan's 1896 dissent in Plessy was vindicated by the majority opinion in Brown v. Board of Education (1954), in which the Court unanimously rejected the "separate but equal" doctrine and ruled that racially segregated public schools were inherently unequal.

What is a filibuster? Why do filibusters only happen in the Senate, but not in the House? How can a filibuster be broken?

-A filibuster is when a senator takes advantage of the Senate's rules allowing for unlimited debate, and refuses to yield the floor while speaking for an extended period of time. In the House, rules provide for limited amounts of time for each Representative to speak. That aside, a filibuster can be broken by invoking a cloture (a procedure for ending a debate and taking a vote).

What is a government corporation?

-A government agency that operates like a business corporation, created to secure greater freedom of action and flexibility for a particular program. Senior Executive Service.

Who is Alice Paul?

-Alice Paul was one of the most prominent activists of the 20th-century women's rights movement. An outspoken suffragist and feminist, she tirelessly led the charge for women's suffrage and equal rights in the United States

Describe the hierarchy of leadership in the Senate. Who has the "real power"?

-All of the "real power" lies in the hands of the hands of the majority and minority leaders.

What is an iron triangle?

-An Iron Triangle is when a bureaucratic agency, an interest group, and a congressional committee works together to advance its own agenda and act in its own interests.

Why does the Supreme Court try to avoid political questions?

-Because the Supreme Court is only supposed to hear legal questions seeing as how they are justiciable while political questions are not due to the very nature of what they are asking.

Why are committees an important element in the House?

-Bills begin and end in committees as committees participate in hearings from agencies and interest groups. Furthermore, committees help to organize the most important work of Congress considering, shaping, and passing laws to govern the nation.

How do the branches of national government compete and cooperate in order to govern?

-Branches of the national government cooperate and compete in order to govern because of the checks and balance and the seperations of powers. This allows that each branch has their own separate powers and each of power of theirs must be checked by each other. This creates a balances between the each of them. Making sure no one does not have authority over another

Describe what happens when the government runs a budget deficit. How is the national debt related?

-Budget deficit, it is spending more than it is taking in. In this way, national savings decreases. When national savings decreases, investment also decreases. Lower investment leads to lower long-term economic growth. Similarly, lower investment is accompanied by higher domestic interest rates, which decreases net exports

Explain how other branches in the government can limit the Supreme Court's power.

-Congressional legislation to modify the impact of prior Supreme Court decisions Constitutional amendments -Judicial appointments and confirmations -The president and states evading or ignoring Supreme Court decisions -Legislation impacting court jurisdiction

How do legislative courts differ from constitutional courts?

-Constitutional courts were created by the constitution, have the power of judicial review, and have judges with life terms. Legislative courts serve a specific rather than general purpose, cannot exercise judicial review powers, and their judges have fixed terms.

Explain how the exercise of judicial review in conjunction with life tenure can lead to debate about the legitimacy of the Supreme Court's power

-Controversial or unpopular court decisions can lead to challenges of the court's legitimacy and power which Congress and the president can address only through future appointments, legislation changing the court's jurisdiction, or refusing to implement decisions. - Controversy about the Supreme Court's power is illustrated by the ongoing debate over judicial activism versus judicial restraint.

How do grand juries differ from petit juries?

-Grand jury is a group of jurors that will decide whether or not to charge a suspect with a crime and a petit jury will decide whether or not they are guilty or innocent.

What were the justifications for a single executive as set forth in Federalist No. 70.

-Hamilton argues that an energetic single executive will protect against foreign attacks, provide for the administration of laws, and protect liberty and property. According to Hamilton in Federalist No.

How is the power of the judiciary justified in Federalist No. 78?

-Hamilton believes the power of the judicial branch is very significant and an integral part of our government. He states that "...the general liberty of the people can never be endangered from that quarter...as the judiciary remains truly distinct from both the legislative and executive." That means that its less likely for a person's rights to be abused by the judicial branch as by the executive or legislative and since the peoples' rights are of the principal concern, they are important to protect.

Composition of the House of Representatives?

-House of Rep. and Senate

Describe the different structures, powers and functions of each house of Congress

-House of Representatives: representation based on population; 435 elected members, re-election every 2 years,introduce bills and resolutions, serve committees. -Senate: each state has two senators; 100 total elected members, ratify treaties negotiated by President, approve Presidential appointments, reelection every 6 years

What do you think of Mr. Whitehead's article? Do you agree/disagree with his ideology? Explain using TWO specific examples from his article and from our class work.

-I think that Mr.Whitehead's article is very aware and outspoken about discrepancies in the government from the Constitution, in which I agree with. For example, when he explains the right to freedom of speech given in the first amendment, yet the constant arrests of people filming officers. Or, when he explains the seventh amendment right to a trial of jury, yet, the lack of constitutional knowledge among the common juror, who has the individual's future in their hands.

Committees and the Iron Triangle

-In United States politics, the "iron triangle" comprises the policy-making relationship among the congressional committees, the bureaucracy, and interest groups. -A congressional committee is a legislative sub-organization in the United States Congress that handles a specific duty (rather than the general duties of Congress). Committee membership enables members to develop specialized knowledge of the matters under their jurisdiction.

In identifying a justification for a challenged classification, should the Court consider (1) actual purposes for the classification, (2) all justifications now proffered by the state, or (3) all justifications proffered by the state plus those that the Court can dream up on its own?

-In identifying a justification for a challenged classification, the Court should consider the actual purposes for the classification.

Louisiana Military University has a long-standing tradition of excellence in educating young minds and turning them into leaders as civilians and soldiers. It also has a long-standing tradition of doing so only if those young minds happen to come in male bodies - women are not admitted to this public institution. Which level of scrutiny would be used? Explain.

-Intermediate scrutiny would be used as it pertains to the Quasi-Suspect classification of gender.

Provide two historical examples showing how presidential public opinion figures can dramatically decline.

-Johnson and Vietnam -Bush and Iraq years after 9/11 -Nixon and Watergate

Explain the principle of judicial review and how it checks the power of other institutions and state governments

-Judicial Review: power of the courts of a country to examine the actions of the legislative, executive, and administrative arms of the government and to determine whether such actions are Constitutional. - Article III of the Constitution: section 1 establishes that all other courts are inferior, they have life long terms, free to rule free of outside factors like salary being altered. section - all federal judges must be appointed by the president and confirmed by the senate - Federalist No. 78: explains the need for a judicial branch and what their role would be in the gov't. emphasizes the need to keep the branch independent and coequal from the other branches - Marbury v. Madison (1803): established principle of judicial review, meaning that the courts have the power to strike down laws, statues, and some government actions that violate the constitution - Established under marshal court

Describe the court's power of judicial Review.

-Judicial review is the power of the courts to decide whether laws and actions of the government are allowed under the Constitution. When a court decides they are not allowed, it orders that the law or action be considered null and void.

Explain how presidents have interpreted and justified their use of formal and informal powers

-Justifications for a single executive are set forth in Federalist No. 70. -Term-of-office and constitutional-power restrictions, including the passage of the Twenty-Second Amendment, demonstrate changing presidential roles. -Different perspectives on the presidential role, ranging from a limited to a more expansive interpretation and use of power, continue to be debated in the context of contemporary events.

List the constitutional qualifications necessary to become president.

-Legal requirements for presidential candidates have remained the same since the year Washington accepted the presidency. As directed by the Constitution, a presidential candidate must be a natural born citizen of the United States, a resident for 14 years, and 35 years of age or older.

Identify McCulloch v. Maryland (1819), the Necessary and Proper (Elastic) Clause, United States v. Lopez (1995), and the Commerce Cause. How do a separation of powers and federalism lead to multiple access points by which to influence public policy?

-McCulloch v. Maryland (1819): Following the establishment of The Second Bank of the United States (1816), the state of Maryland enacted legislation which would tax the bank. When James W. McCulloch (cashier of the Baltimore branch of the bank) rejected the tax, the state appeals court decided that the Second Bank was considered unconstitutional since the Constitution does not grant the federal government power to charter a bank. -Necessary and Proper Clause: the final clause of Article I, Section 8 in the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to make laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out its expressed powers; also known as the Elastic Clause -United States v. Lopez (1995): When 12th grader, Alfonso Lopez, brought a firearm to his highschool in Texas, he was charged with firearm possession on school premises. These charged were dismissed the next day, replaced with the charges against Lopez for the violation of a federal criminal statute, being the Gun-Free Zones Act of 1990. -Commerce Clause: Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations,and among the several states with indian tribes -Separation of Powers and federalism leads to multiple access points for stakeholders and institutions to influence public policy. Impeachment, removal, and other legal precautions taken against public officials accused to have abused their power, reflect the purpose of checks and balances, which is to prevent corruption, and any person/group from having too much power

How many cases are appealed to the Supreme Court each year? How many cases does the court usually hear? How many justices are necessary for a case to be granted writ of certiorari?

-More than 8,000 cases are appealed per year but they only hear approx. 100. Writ of certiorari: a written appeal made by a party requesting a case to be heard by the Supreme Court.

How were most jobs in government filled before the 1880s? What tragic event took place that changed the staffing of the federal bureaucracy?

-Most jobs were filled by the spoils system-president gives government jobs to supports, friends -President Garfield was shot by a man who believed he deserved a job for his efforts in helping getting him elected to office.

What advice to fix his perceived problems does Mr. Whitehead give to us, the American Public?

-Mr.Whitehead advises that the American people begin by instituting changes at the local level, holding our government officials accountable to the rule of law, and resurrecting the Constitution, recognizing that if we follow our current trajectory, the picture of the future will be closer to what George Orwell likened to "a boot stamping on a human face -- forever."

Provide a historical example that illustrates the Presidential Succession Act in action.

-Nixon resigned and Johnson became the president.

List the responsibilities of the Office of Personnel Management and the Merit Systems Protection Board.

-OPM hires for most of the federal agencies. Has very specific rules about the hiring, promotion, and firing duties. Candidates are required to take a test before getting civil service job. Merit Systems Protection Board ensures candidates are hired based on merit.

Describe the importance of compromise in Philadelphia and identify key plans and compromises, including the Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan, the Great Compromise, the Three-Fifths Compromise, the Executive Compromises (Electoral College), the Commerce Compromises. Describe the Amendment Process, the Supremacy Clause and how the issue of slavery was handled in Philadelphia.

-The importance of compromise in Philadelphia was to settle matters of representation through the federal government. -The Virginia Plan: proposed by James Madison, this plan consisted of a bicameral legislature (proportional representation), a strong central government with three branches (legislative, judicial, executive). -The New Jersey Plan: proposed by William Paterson for one legislative house, and each individual state to have one vote in congress (equal representation). -The Great Compromise: established that there would be two national legislatures in a bicameral Congress, and representatives would be allocated based on population, and elected by the people. -the Three-Fifths Compromise: established that ⅗ of the slave population would count in regards to direct representation and taxation. -The Executive Compromises: established that the President would be elected by electors, in which each state would retain a number of electors based on population. If there is no majority vote, the House would elect the President, and Senate would elect the Vice-President. -Commerce Compromises: established that Congress could regulate trade between the states and foreign countries but Congress could not interfere with slave trade. Amendment Process: - amendment is proposed by 2/3 vote of each house of congress -amendment is ratified by 3/4 of the state legislatures -amendment is ratified by 3/4 of the state conventions - amendment is proposed by a national convection by congress at the request of 2/3 of the state legislatures -Supremacy Clause: establishes that state judges must follow federal law if a conflict arises between federal and state law. -The issue of slavery was handled in Philadelphia through the creation of the Slave Trade Clause. This ultimately prevented congress from voting against international slave trade up to 1808. The Fugitive Slave Act was also implemented in order to satisfy the slave states, as well as the ⅗ Compromise, in order to increase southern representation in Congress.

How can the judicial branch limit the power of bureaucratic agencies?

-The judicial branch can also impose constraints on the bureaucracy. This occurs when the federal court system becomes involved in a lawsuit that is filed against an agency. Such cases often end up in legislative courts such as the Tax Court, Court of Claims, or other specialized courts.

Identify and describe the distinguishing powers of the senate.

-The main powers that the Senate holds are to confirm Presidential appointments such as Supreme Court justices, ratify treaties made by the executive branch, and act as a judge and jury in impeachment cases.

California passes a law requiring that all automobiles initially purchased or initially registered in that state after February 1, 2018, pass certain rigorous emissions tests. Cars initially purchased and initially registered prior to that date need only meet the current emissions standards, even if subsequently purchased or registered by a new owner at some point after February 1, 2018. Which level of scrutiny would be used? Explain.

-The minimum level of scrutiny would be used as it serves California's state interest specifically.

Which philosophy applies to the famous case Brown v. Board of Education (1954)? Why?

-The philosophy of judicial activism was used in Brown v. Board of Education because it allowed for a complete policy shift and a move away from the separate but equal that was currently okay before this.

Explain how the president's agenda can create tension and frequent confrontations with Congress

-The potential for conflict with the Senate depends upon the type of executive branch appointments, including: Cabinet members Ambassadors White House staff -Senate confirmation is an important check on appointment powers, but the president's longest lasting influence lies in life-tenured judicial appointments. -Policy initiatives and executive orders promoted by the president often lead to conflict with the congressional agenda.

Describe how checks and balances plays a role in naming federal judges. Why do presidents often follow the unwritten rule of senatorial courtesy when nominating state-level judges?

-The president can appoint a judge, but the congress of the legislative branch must approve the appointment. The president and the Senate will come together to decide on the judges and use the opinions of the house to rightfully place and appoint those to lead in court.

Describe the expressed role of the Vice President.

-The primary responsibility of the Vice President of the United States is to be ready at a moment's notice to assume the Presidency if the President is unable to perform his duties.

Explain the process of using a political "litmus test" when selecting possible federal judges.

-The purpose of the litmus test when selecting federal judges is to further decide on nominations to be sure that this individual is the correct candidate for nomination.

Women in American History: The Path to Suffrage (WRM) 19th Amendment

-The right of the citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.

Explain how this event advanced or retarded the WRM.

-The suffrage movement was part of this wave of Progressive Era reforms. Prominent suffragists led other progressive causes as well. By turning women's traditional social roles into public and political ones, this generation of reformers began to win broader support for women's votes.

What types of characteristics do presidents usually look for when they nominate a justice to the Supreme Court?

-There are a few very common things that are looked for in Supreme Court Justices: -Similar political ideology to the president (has nominations) -Diverse race and sex to have a larger representation of the American population -Experience is key because it will determine what kind of judge they will be - especially in regards to their past ruling

Describe what happens at the confirmation hearing. Why did the Senate nearly vote against the confirmation of Clarence Thomas?

-There is a committee that nominates a candidate and sends their recommendation to the Senate before the vote takes place. In the case of Clarence Thomas, no recommendation was given and there was a 50-50 tie in the Senate that was only broken by the Vice President (aka the President of the Senate). His confirmation also illustrated the role of interest groups in the confirmation of Supreme Court justices.

Explain the purpose of the 25th Amendment.

-This amendment is necessary, because it establishes what is to be done in the event there's an absence in any presidential or vice presidential role.

Why is the beginning of a president's term considered to be the "honeymoon" phase?

-This is a time when the president is still quite popular.

Nevada passes a law which mandates that "no person who was born in Mexico shall be eligible for jury service." Which level of scrutiny would be used? Explain.

-This would be a strict level of scrutiny because it prevents access to the courts by refusing jury service to Mexican-American citizens.

In what types of cases does the U.S. Supreme Court hold original jurisdiction?

-Under Article III, Section 2, the Supreme Court has original jurisdiction "in all cases affecting Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, and those in which a State shall be a Party." This provision is self-executing: Congress may neither restrict nor enlarge the Supreme Court's original jurisdiction, but Congress may give concurrent jurisdiction to lower federal courts and has done so regarding all cases except those between states.

Provide an example showing how the President sometimes might not be leading their political party.

-When President Jimmy carter told Congress that he would veto any bills that contain "pork barrels" public work projects, but gave in and approved pet projects.

How can the president help other candidates via their "coattails"?

-When one popular candidate in an election draws votes for other candidate in the same party. When President Jimmy carter told Congress that he would veto any bills that contain "pork barrels" public work projects, but gave in and approved pet projects.

How can the Supreme Court affect a law?

-When the Supreme Court rules on a constitutional issue, that judgment is virtually final; its decisions can be altered only by the rarely used procedure of constitutional amendment or by a new ruling of the Court. However, when the Court interprets a statute, new legislative action can be taken.

Describe the meaning of both judicial activism and judicial restraint.

-a philosophy of judicial decision-making whereby judges allow, mainly, their personal views about public policy to guide their decisions -a theory of judicial interpretation that encourages judges to limit the exercise of their own power.

List and describe the powers Congress can use to limit bureaucratic agencies.

-appoint Secretaries -establish policies that attempt to improve the operation of government agencies -authority over the agencies' budget spending

List some actions the President can take to limit the power of bureaucratic agencies.

-appoint Secretaries -establish policies that attempt to improve the operation of government agencies -authority over the agencies' budget spending

What items take up the largest percentage of the annual federal budget? Why are entitlements and interest on the national debt considered fixed spending?

-entitlements: money that has been set aside for specific reasons; There is a fixed amount of money set aside for these things

How do regulatory agencies differ from executive agencies? Provide examples of each type of bureaucratic agency.

-executive agencies are controlled by the various cabinet departments (the IRS), regulatory agencies are outside the control of the cabinet (the SEC)

To what extent have changes in the powers of each branch affected how responsive and accountable the national government is in the 21st century?

-the House has become determined by skewed elections -the executive branch has increased in power and is able to be in gridlock with congress more often -the bureaucracy has become bigger, its rules governing the people without their consent -The increase in power has lead to more gridlock, with this frustration in time, presidents turn to executive orders and more responsibility to the bureau making the government more removed from the people

Briefly describe how the federal budget process exemplifies the principle of checks and balances.

-the United States the checks and balances built into the Constitution make budgeting especially complex, and require a multi-stage process that greatly compounds the difficulty of getting budget decisions made.

Describe the meaning of the principle stare decisis.

-the principle is stating that an earlier decision should hold for the current case. ... A ruling issued by an appellate court of multiple judges in which the decision rendered is made by the court.

Identify and explain the four options the President can take when Congress passes a bill.

1) To sign it - becomes a law 2) To veto it - refuse to sign it, must be returned to original house with a veto message 3) To allow the bill to become a law without signing - not acting on it for 10 days 4) Pocket Veto - If congress adjourns its session within 10 days of submitting and the president does not act, the measure dies.

Using the Constitution read and study the first ten amendments carefully and then respond to the following:

1-The first amendment ensures citizens' right to freely express themselves through forbidding congress to limit one's rights to speak freely, as well as the press. The amendment also protects the right of citizens to gather peacefully and petition the governemnt. Establishment Clause: The Establishment Clause forbids the government from instituting or promoting one religion over the other. Free Exercise Clause: The Free Exercise Clause secures citizens' right to practice any religion as they please, to the extent of surpassing public morals. 2 The second amendment ensures a military force to protect citizens in cases of emergency A citizen's right to carry a weapon. 3 The third amendment implies the right to domestic privacy for citizens in times of peace and war, protecting people from government orders. Protects citizens from the quartering of a solider 4 The third amendment restricts officials from searching people, their homes, and property without probable cause. Protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures

LGBT Rights in American History History of the LGBT Movement

Briefly outline the LGBT Movement from 1940s-1960's in a succinct response that answers the 5W's. 1940s: -Growth in the urban subculture of gay men and lesbians. - Government and police harassment, persecution, and investigation of gays. 1950s-1960s: -The homophile movement remained small and relatively marginalized. -The homophile movement flourished in the United States between 1951 and 1970. This organizationally-based social movement used a variety of tactics in its quest to challenge and change patterns of discrimination against homosexuals within the institutions of the media, law, religion, psychology, and medicine. 1960s: -Rise of activism Reformist goals: -decriminalization of homosexual acts -equal treatment and equal rights under the law, -dissemination of accurate, -"unbiased" information about homosexuality. Achievements: -right to publish gay and lesbian magazines, - first employment discrimination cases won, - constraints on police harassment, - dialogue opened in the scientific and religious communities, - media visibility, - organizational impulse, - denunciation of how gays and lesbians are a mistreated, persecuted minority. Problems: Society's hostility against homosexuals and the penalties attached to exposure. What is "Stonewall" and why is this event important to the LGBT community (you will have to Google Search "Stonewall" to find more information on this subject)? -The Stonewall riots were a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the gay community in response to a police raid that began in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. Stonewall soon became a symbol of resistance to social and political discrimination that would inspire solidarity among homosexual groups for decades. Although the Stonewall riots cannot be said to have initiated the gay rights movement as such, it did serve as a catalyst for a new generation of political activism. What is "Lesbian-Feminism" and how does did it effect the greater LGBT Movement? -Lesbian feminism is a cultural movement and critical perspective, most influential in the 1970s and early 1980s, that encourages women to focus their efforts, attentions, relationships, and activities towards their fellow women rather than men and often advocates lesbianism as the logical result of feminism. It ideology of lesbianism that challenged the invisibility of lesbianism, the new rhetoric of gay liberation, mainstream feminism, and heterosexuality. Helped in building institutions and creating lesbian-only spaces where a culture and a community could flourish. How does the AIDS epidemic change perceptions about the LBGT Movement (both positive and negative)? -Through the effective response to the epidemic, the movement achieved a high level of sophistication, influence, and permanence. -Money, skills, and recruits went toward building AIDS service and advocacy organizations, as well as the broader agenda of gay politics. -Dramatic increase in the level of organization and visibility of gays of color, whose communities were the most affected by the epidemic. -Lesbians got involved in the fight against AIDS, thus starting to work more closely with gay men and assuming leadership roles in formerly male-dominated organizations. - A new culture of sexuality developed. - Activists with years of grassroots experience are now able to have "careers" in the movement. - Return to tactics of direct action and civil disobedience. - Revival of a radical political analysis and broad strategic vision within the movement. - Participation in coalition with other movements around issues of common concern.

Identify our federal system of government and define the exclusive and concurrent powers of the national and state governments. Contrast delegated powers and the reserved powers of the 10th Amendment. Identify the 16th Amendment, conditions of aid, block grants, categorical grants, revenue sharing, mandates (funded/unfunded), devolution and states' rights.

-Our Federal System of government is made up of the legislative, judicial, and executive branch. The powers to these branches are granted by the Constitution towards federal courts, the President, and Congress. This power is shared between the federal and state governments, as all powers not granted to the national government, are granted to the states. Exclusive Powers: Reserved powers -Federal: coin money, regulate the mail, declare war, or conduct foreign affairs. -State: establish policies on commerce, taxation, healthcare, education, and any other problems within their state. Concurrent Powers: Shared powers (federal and state) -Both the states and the federal government have the power to tax, make and enforce laws, charter banks, and borrow money. -10th Amendment: "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people" Explains: A delegated power is a power granted to the national government. A reserved power is a power specifically reserved to the states/people. -16th Amendment: "The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration." Allows the federal government to levy taxes on all Americans. -Conditions of Aid: mandates which are tied to the receipt of intergovernmental aid. -Block grants: a grant from the federal government that a local/state government can allocate to a wide range of services. -Categorical grants: a grant from the federal government to local/state governments with far stricter regulations as to what the money can be used for. -Revenue sharing: a government unit's apportioning of part of its tax income to other units of government. -Mandates: Terms or goals set by the national government that the states have to meet. Either funded, unfunded, partially funded, or underfunded. -Devolution: the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the federal government to the states. -States' rights: Powers expressly or implicitly reserved to the states

Define pardon and reprieve. What is the most famous pardon in U.S. political history?

-Pardon - the action of an executive official of the government that sets aside the punishment for a crime -Reprieve - the withdrawal of any sentence for a period of time The most infamous pardon would be that of Richard Nixon's

Why is the federal government a necessary entity?

-People generally can not be self governing. Everyone has different ideas of how things should be run and that causes conflict.

What is the basis for representation in the House?

-Population per state

What role do interest groups play in the selection/confirmation of potential Supreme Court justices?

-President's select nominees with a strategy to mobilize certain interest groups. They also use them to appeal to and gain the vote of certain constituencies.

Explain how the president ensures that executive branch agencies and departments carry out their responsibilities in concert with the goals of the administration

-Presidential ideology, authority, and influence affect how executive branch agencies carry out the goals of the administration - Compliance monitoring can pose a challenge to policy implementation.

List the major provisions of the Hatch Act.

-Restricted civil service employees to participate in partisan political life while on duty. While off duty they may participate but can not run for elective offices. Those with special positions may not participate whatsoever.

List three differences between the House and Senate.

-Senate members originally elected by state legislatures, House members originally elected by voters. There are 100 members in the senate, there are 435 voting members in the house. The senate is national leadership, while the house is local or narrow leadership.

What is stated in Amendments 5-8 about the legal procedures that must be followed in civil and criminal cases? What rights are guaranteed to individuals accused of crimes?

Amendment Legal Procedures (Written rules) Guaranteed Rights of Accused (Legal entitlements of the accused) 5 The fifth amendment ensures that anyone accused of a felony offense has the right to a Grand Jury, one cannot be prosecuted twice for the same crime, and protects citizens from incriminating themselves. The amendment also requires that there be a "due process of law" in any procedure in which a citizen is denied "life, liberty, and property", as well as just payment (compensation) when someone's property is seized by the government for public use. -Due process clause; prohibiting state governments from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law Grand jury indictment, double jeopardy, protection against self incrimination, and takings clause. 6 The sixth amendment gives everyone a right to an attorney when accused of a crime, as well as a speedy and public trial (important for those innocently accused), a jury without bias, as well as the right of being innocent until proven guilty. right to an attorney when accused of a crime, as well as a speedy and public trial (important for those innocently accused), a jury without bias, as well as the right of being innocent until proven guilty. -Right to Lawyer -Right to know Accusers -Right to know charges 7 The seventh amendment allows for civil cases (suing) to be judged by a jury rather than only by a judge through the circumstances that, the claim must be civil not criminal, the claim must be based on federal law in a federal court, the lawsuit must surpass the amount of $20 for compensation, the lawsuit has to be a claim in which the English common law of 1791 would have allowed for a trial by jury. civil cases (suing) to be judged by a jury rather than only by a judge through the circumstances that, the claim must be civil not criminal, the claim must be based on federal law in a federal court, the lawsuit must surpass the amount of $20 for compensation, the lawsuit has to be a claim in which the English common law of 1791 would have allowed for a trial by jury -Right to trial by jury 8 The eighth amendment institutes that when someone is accused of a crime that the judge must set a price that the individual could pay in order to free themselves whilst awaiting their trial, excessive fines also are prohibited against people or organizations as a form of punishment for a crime. This amendment also protects people from being victim of "cruel and unusual punishments" such as torture, burning alive, taking away citizenship, etc. At the time of the production of the Constitution, death was not deemed as a cruel punishment for heinous crimes, although it has become a debate throughout the nation today. when someone is accused of a crime that the judge must set a price that the individual could pay in order to free themselves whilst awaiting their trial, excessive fines also are prohibited against people or organizations as a form of punishment for a crime. This amendment also protects people from being victim of "cruel and unusual punishments" such as torture, burning alive, taking away citizenship, etc. At the time of the production of the Constitution, death was not deemed as a cruel punishment for heinous crimes -Excessive bail not to be required -No excessive fines -No cruel or unusual punishment

Pick two amendments with specific rights that Mr. Whitehead describes are in danger and elaborate on his reasoning. In other words, research his statements to discover if what he is saying is true or false:

Amendment Mr. Whiteheads Summarized Statement Research backing or refuting what he stated 1st Amendment The first amendment is meant to protect the individual's freedom of speech and right to protest, yet Americans face constant assault under this right. Whitehead's argument that the right to freedom of speech is under attack by society constantly is held to be true. There have been multiple cases where individuals have been attacked for protesting, filming officers, journalism, etc. 7th Amendment The seventh amendment ensures the individuals right to a trial by jury, although, the common person is not knowledgeable enough on the constitution due to American curriculum, in order to make such vital decisions towards someone's life. Whitehead's argument stands to be true as there is no constitutional knowledge required in order to be a jury. Requirements: -be a United States citizen -be at least 18 years of age -reside primarily in the judicial district for one year -be adequately proficient in English to satisfactorily complete the juror qualification form -have no disqualifying mental or physical condition -not currently be subject to felony charges punishable by imprisonment for more than one year -never have been convicted of a felony (unless civil rights have been legally restored)

What do Amendments 13-15 state about the basic freedoms and legal procedural rights of individuals?

Amendments Basic Freedom Legal Procedural Right 13 The 13th amendment to the United States Constitution provides that "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." -Abolishment of slavert; freedom -"Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." 14 The 14th amendment states cannot pass laws that bypass the privileges or immunities of US citizens, nor should any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property - at least not without due process of law. -Citizenship -"born or naturalized in the United States," including formerly enslaved people, and provided all citizens with "equal protection under the laws" 15 The 15th Amendment to the Constitution granted African American men the right to vote by declaring that the "right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude."

What do Amendments 9 and 10 state about the retention of rights by the people and the states?

Amendments Retention of Power 9 The ninth amendment explains that all rights that have not been listed in the constitution belong to the citizens, not the government. -People retain rights with the absence of enumeration. 10 The tenth amendment declares that the powers of the federal government are only those of listed in the Constitution, any powers that have not been listed are said to be left to the people or states. -People retain the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

Explain the separation of powers, and describe the key powers of each branch. Describe the checks and balances among the three branches, including the impeachment process. Clearly explain Federalist No. 51.

-Separation of Powers: the division of government powers to limit one branch from exercising too much power -Legislative: made up of house and senate; makes laws, declares war, regulates interstate and foriegn commerce, controls tax/spending policies. -Judicial: (supreme and federal courts) interpreting state laws, settling legal disputes, setting punishments for those who disobey the law, hearing civil cases, protecting individual rights, determining the guilt or innocence of those accused of violating the law. -Executive: includes President, Vice-President, the Cabinet, executive departments, independent agencies, and other boards, commissions, and committees; Presidential powers: Serve as commander in chief of the armed forces, Commission officers of the armed forces, Grant reprieves and pardons for federal offenses (except impeachment), Convene Congress in special sessions, Receive ambassadors, Take care that the laws be faithfully executed. -Checks and Balances system: A system in which each branch of government can "check" or mandate the actions of the other branches. It keeps each branch from becoming too powerful. -EX: Impeachment Process; a process for removing high-ranking public officials from office. The president, vice-president, and all civil officers (federal judges) can be removed from office on impeachment for any conviction of treason, bribery, and other high crimes and misdemeanors. -Federalist No. 51: addresses circumstances in which checks and balances can be created in government, and also advocates for a separation of powers within the national government. The idea of checks and balances is said to be crucial as it provides for balances of power, and ensures/protects liberty.

What happens during reapportionment?

-States may lose or gain seats in the house of representatives

Define loose vs. strict construction

-Strict construction means that the Federal government has very limited powers.Loose construction means that the Constitution gives the Federal government broad powers to do what is necessary.

Explain how the bureaucracy carries out the responsibilities of the federal government

-Tasks performed by departments, agencies, commissions, and government corporations are represented by: -writing and enforcing regulations -issuing fines -testifying before Congress -Issue networks and "iron triangles" -Political patronage, civil service, and merit system reforms all impact the effectiveness of the bureaucracy by promoting professionalism, specialization, and neutrality.

Identify the Articles of Confederation and describe a confederal system, a unitary system and a federal system. Identify the weaknesses under the Articles as well as key accomplishments under the Articles. What was Shays' Rebellion and what was the role played by "Rogue Island" in Philadelphia?

-The Articles of Confederation had served as the first Constitution of the United States. There were many weaknesses of the Articles such as there being no central leader, no power to enforce laws by government, no power to tax, no power to regulate trade, and no federal court system. Although, the Articles contained some federal strengths such as the power to declare war and begin an army/navy, make peace treaties/sign them, federal government can borrow money, and they can organize a post office. -Confederal system: a union of states with each individual state retaining some independent control over both internal and external affairs. -Unitary system: a system where all key powers are retaining to the national or central government. -Federal system: a system where the powers of government are divided between national government and state governments. -Shay's Rebellion was a violent uprising on government properties in Massachusetts in response to preventing the imprisonment of debt-ridden citizens. Many critiqued the Articles for not working after, influencing it's removal, and establishment of the Constitution. -Rhode Island gained the nickname "Rogue Island" as the state would not approve of the Constitution until May 1790, which had been almost a year after George Washington became President, the state had also refused to send delegates to the convention in Philadelphia.

Specifically explain how a President can be removed from office. Provide at least one historical example of this process.

-The House of Representatives must first pass, by a simple majority of those present and voting. Now that the president has been "impeached". Senate tries to accuse the president and the Chief Justice looks over everything. Example- Nixon

If the Supreme Court accepts an appellate case, what must each party then do? How much time does each side receive when they argue their case at the Supreme Court?

-The Plaintiff and the Respondent are allotted 30 minutes each to present their case. Agreed on by more than half of the members of court.

Who must confirm any leader of a cabinet department?

-The Senate

Why does the Supreme Court often refuse to hear certain cases?

-The Supreme Court looks at each case and determines whether or not the case is too politically "hot" for them to handle.

How did the passage of the 22nd Amendment demonstrate changing presidential roles.

-The Twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution limits the number of times a person is eligible for election to the office of President of the United States to two, and sets additional eligibility conditions for presidents who succeed to the unexpired terms of their predecessors.

What is the Warren Court known for?

-The Warren Court expanded civil rights, civil liberties, judicial power, and federal power.

Describe the battle for ratification and identify the Federalists and Anti-Federalists and their positions. Explain why no Bill of Rights was added (in Philadelphia). Identify key positions in Federalist No. 10 (Madison's fear of factions) and Brutus No. 1.

-The battle for ratification refers to the debates that occurred within individual state legislature sin regards to the ratification of the Constitution. Federalists had supported the Constitution, whereas, Anti-Federalists had not. Federalists believed that a strong central government would be necessary in order to form a nation between all states. Anti-Federalists believed that a strong central government would threaten individual liberties, as there had been no Bill of Rights. No Bill of Rights was added in Philadelphia because Federalists had believed that it was not needed as all powers not granted to the federal government, was granted to the states. Although, Anti-Federalists felt that this did not ensure individual liberties. -In Federalist Paper No. 10 by James Madison, he argues that as factions are inevitable within a republic, a strong central government would ultimately act as a guard against factions and majority tyranny. On the other hand, in Anti-Federalist paper, Brutus 1, its argued that too much power is granted to the federal government. Brutus argues that individual rights/freedoms are better guarded in a decentralized government.

Outline the steps needed for a bill to become a law. Include the role of the House Rules Committee, conference committees and possible filibuster.

-The bill is created and introduced and then sent to committees for examination and subcommittees for revision. After the hearing, the necessary changes are made to the bill, voting takes place, After this, a conference committee comes together and work towards an agreement. To conclude, a final decision is made, which the president can veto.

Describe two factors that often cause a president to have positive public opinion poll figures?

-The condition of the economy -jobs -can people get loans for homes cars etc

What is Gerrymandering?

-The drawing of legislative district boundaries to benefit a party, group, or incumbent.

Describe the responsibilities of a cabinet leader.

-The executive branch of the government is divided into 15 cabinet departments that set policies and oversee programs affecting every American. These agencies' responsibilities require thousands of skilled professionals working in offices nationwide.

Compare and contrast federal district courts and federal courts of appeal. Be sure to include their jurisdiction, purpose and number of courts.

-The federal district courts hear a wide range of both criminal and civil cases and they are only federal courts that regularly use grand juries to indict defendants and petit juries to try defendants. The federal courts of appeals take on the appeals that the Supreme Court cannot see to from the district courts. -Appeal; 12 courts -District; 94

Describe what happens when the government runs a budget surplus.

-The government collects more than it spends.

Describe the hierarchy of leadership in the House.

-The hierarchy of leadership within the HoR begins with the Speaker of the House, then goes down to the Majority House leaders, to the whip leaders, and then the Minority House leaders. The majority party members and the minority party members meet separately to select their leaders.

Shaw v. Reno (1993)

(Racial Gerrymandering) Shaw v. Reno was a landmark United States Supreme Court case in the area of redistricting and racial gerrymandering. The court ruled in a 5-4 decision that redistricting based on race must be held to a standard of strict scrutiny under the equal protection clause.

Baker v. Carr (1961)

(redistricting qualifies as a justiciable question) Baker v. Carr forced the Tennessee legislature to reapportion itself on the basis of population. Traditionally, particularly in the South, the populations of rural areas had been overrepresented in legislatures in proportion to those of urban and suburban areas.

Use the infographic provided to define:

Civil Liberties: Civil liberties are rights that are given to citizens and cannot be taken away by the government. Civil Rights: The powers or privileges that are conferred on citizens by the Constitution and the court and that entitle them to make claims upon the government.

Explain how democratic ideals are reflected in the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Consider, limited government, natural rights, popular sovereignty and the social contract. Discuss the roles of Washington, Madison and Hamilton, in Philadelphia in the summer of 1787. What was the role played by the Grand Committee?

Declaration of Independence: -"All men are created equal": all persons are born with same natural rights (Life, Liberty, Pursuit of Happiness/Property), government is created to protect such rights; created foundation for popular sovereignty -Government is based on the consent of the governed: fundamental to the social contract; government's moral right to execute power over states is only justified/lawful when it is permitted by the people the power is being exercised on. The Constitution: -Federalism: the division of power between the federal and state governments. -Separation of Powers: government roles are divided between three separate branches. -Checks and Balances: each branch of government is authorized to preform checks over the other(s). -Limited Government: all persons must obey the law;there are no exceptions -Individual rights: the rights of citizens that cannot be taken away; speech, religion, press, voting; government is meant to protect those rights Philadelphia Convention (1987) -Madison: represented virginia, chief recorder of information -Washington: unanimously elected President;oversees debates;non-partisan -Hamilton: played a role in writing the Constitution itself; founding ideas on how to structure the government Grand Committee: -The Grand Committee was a representation of the struggle between finding a compromise between the large and small states. The committee would apportion representation, and decide how the nation would be governed.

Philosophy of Women's Suffrage

Define Picket and suffrage. How are these two terms connected to each other? -Picketing involves patrolling of a business by workers who are on strike. Suffrage refers to the right to vote. Women had used picketing as a form of protest for women's suffrage. What was the underlying philosophy of women's suffrage? -The primary philosophy of early women suffrage leaders such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B Anthony was to "gain voting rights at the state level first and then move on to federal rights" since this seemed like the most viable option, to approach the issue gradually. What right did women's suffrage claim for women? -Right to vote in official elections

Explain how the federal bureaucracy uses delegated discretionary authority for rule making and implementation

Discretionary and rule-making authority to implement policy are given to bureaucratic agencies such as: -U.S. Department of Agriculture -U.S. Department of Defense -U.S. Department of Homeland Security -U.S. Department of Transportation -U.S. Department of State -U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs -U.S. Department of Education

Selective incorporation is defined as the process through which the civil liberties granted in the Bill of Rights were/are applied to the states on a case-by-case basis through the "due process clause" of the 14th Amendment. Explain how selective incorporation was applied in each of the following cases:

First Amendment: Gitlow v. New York (1925) -Communist, handed out flyers to overthrow government. Argued that freedom of speech is a fundamental right that must be applied to states. Loses case, but 1st amendment free speech clause incorporated. Fourth Amendment: Mapp v. Ohio (1961) -the United States Supreme Court decided that evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against "unreasonable searches and seizures," may not be used in state law criminal prosecutions in state courts, as well, as had previously been the law, as in federal criminal law prosecutions in federal courts. The Supreme Court accomplished this by use of a principle known as selective incorporation; in this case this involved the incorporation of the provisions, as construed by the Court, of the Fourth Amendment which are literally applicable only to actions of the federal government into the Fourteenth Amendment due process clause which is literally applicable to actions of the states. Fifth Amendment: Miranda v. Arizona (1963) -applied 5th Amendment to state with protection against self incrimination Sixth Amendment: Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) - applied the 6th amendment right to counsel in Criminal cases to the states Ninth Amendment: Griswold v. Connecticut (1969) -States cannot ban the use of contraceptives due to the right to privacy

Explain how congressional behavior is influenced by election processes, partisanship, and divided government.

Ideological divisions within Congress that may lead to gridlock or create the need for negotiation and compromise gerrymandering, redistricting, and unequal representation of constituencies that have increased partisanship and decreased accountability, partially addressed by such Court decisions as Baker v. Carr (1961) and Shaw v. Reno (1993). Elections that have led to a divided government, including partisan votes against presidential initiatives and congressional refusal to confirm appointments of "lame-duck" presidents of the opposing party.

Literacy Tests/Poll Tax

In the rural counties where most folk lived, you had to go down to the courthouse to register. The voting registration office was only open every other Monday for a couple of hours, usually in the morning or afternoon. You had to take off work — with or without your employer's permission — to register. And if a white employer gave such permission, or failed to fire a Black who tried to vote, he might be driven out of business by economic retaliation from the Citizens Council. On the occasional registration day, the county Sheriff and his deputies made it their business to hang around the courthouse to discourage "undesirables" from trying to register. This meant that Black women and men had to run a gauntlet of intimidation, insults, threats, and sometimes arrest on phony charges, just to get to the Registration Office. Once in the Registrars Office they faced hatred, harassment, and humiliation from clerks and officials. What was the Alabama Application form designed to do? The Alabama Application Form and oaths you had to take were four pages long. It was designed to intimidate and threaten. You had to swear that your answers to every single question were true under penalty of perjury. And you knew that the information you entered on the form about yourself and others would be passed on to the Citizens Council and KKK for appropriate action on their part. Which amendment ended the poll tax? -24th Amendment Which President of the U.S. formalized and help approve the 24th Amendment? -President Lyndon Johnson

Explain how Congress uses its oversight power in its relationship with the executive branch

Oversight and methods used by Congress to ensure that legislation is implemented as intended are represented by: - Committee hearings - Power of the purse As a means to curtail the use of presidential power, "congressional oversight" serves as a check of executive authorization and appropriation.

Identify the models of representative democracy- participatory democracy, pluralist democracy and elite democracy. Explain how each of the three models are reflected through institutions and political behavior today. Identify the concepts of federalism, separation of powers, hyper pluralism, gridlock and political elites.

Participatory democracy: form of democracy where citizens vote directly on holding offices/policies Representative democracy: form of democracy in which citizens elect representatives to vote on policies, and make decisions based off of their constituents. Pluralist democracy: form of democracy where thno group dominates politics; many interest groups compete to exert influence on government Elite democracy: form of democracy in which a small number of people, typically wealthy/educated, influence government decisions. -Today, the United States doesn't function as a fully participatory democracy, although, to some extent, participatory principles are reflected through features such as town hall meetings, initiatives, referendums, etc. A pluralistic democracy is featured at a state and federal level, such as the role interest groups play in influencing politics today. Groups such as the (NRA) and (NOW) influence policies through donations, lobbying, etc. Today, there is noticeable influence of an elitist democracy in the structure of the electoral college. This is because the system places major political decisions in the hands of a small group, even if those decisions go against the public's will. Federalism: system of government where the power is divided between a state and federal level Separation of Powers: system where the legislative, executive, and judicial powers are assigned to different person(s), limiting and checking the power of each branch. Hyperpluralism: theory that there are too many ways for interest groups to dictate policies; exaggerated form of pluralism Gridlock: when the government is unable to act because opposing parties dominate different parts of the government. Political Elites: an identifiable group of persons who have a disproportionate share of some valued resource (money, political power, etc.)

Explain how the president can implement a policy agenda

Presidents use powers and perform functions of the office to accomplish a policy agenda such as: -Vetoes and pocket votes -Foreign policy -Bargaining and persuasion -Executive orders -Signing statements

Explain how the political cartoon: a. Has a DIRECT correlation between the scissors and the Patriot Act → Be specific with the amendments that you use to demonstrate the connection

Scissors represent the ways in which the PAtriot Act has harmed the Bill of Rights, for example: -Violates the Fourth Amendment, which says the government cannot conduct a search without obtaining a warrant and showing probable cause to believe that the person has committed or will commit a crime. Violates the First Amendment's guarantee of free speech by prohibiting the recipients of search orders from telling others about those orders, even where there is no real need for secrecy. Violates the First Amendment by effectively authorizing the FBI to launch investigations of American citizens in part for exercising their freedom of speech. Violates the Fourth Amendmentby failing to provide notice, even after the fact, to people whose privacy has been compromised. Notice is also a key element of due process, which is guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment.

Explain how the structure, powers and functions of both houses of Congress affect the policy-making process

Senate- more strict House- approves different committees are more lenity with policy making. -pork barrel legislative -policy making parities -budget making The enumerated and implied powers in the Constitution allow the creation of public policy by Congress: (including) Passing a federal budget, raising revenue, coining money,declaring war, maintaining the armed forces, enacting legislation that addresses a wide range of economic, environmental, and social issues based on the Necessary and Proper Clause

Explain how communication technology has changed the president's relationship with the national constituency and other branches.

The communication impact of the presidency can be demonstrated through such factors as: -Modern technology, social media, and rapid response to political issues -Nationally broadcast State of the Union messages and the president's bully pulpit used as tools for agenda setting

African-Americans in American History: The Path to Freedom Jim Crow Laws

What did the Compromise of 1877 end? -The Compromise of 1877 was an unwritten deal, informally arranged among U.S. Congressmen, that settled the intensely disputed 1876 presidential election. It resulted in the United States federal government pulling the last troops out of the South, and ending the Reconstruction Era. How did the Compromise of 1877 effect southern blacks? -Southern Democrats' promises to protect civil and political rights of blacks were not kept, and the end of federal interference in southern affairs led to widespread disenfranchisement of blacks voters Which state did many blacks migrate to for a desperate escape from Jim Crow laws? -New York City

Use the Video to answer q's 4-10

What is a civil liberty? Give an example. -Civil liberties are limitations placed on the government, for example: freedom of speech What is a civil right? Give an example. -Civil rights are guarantees of of equal citizenship, meaning they protecting from discrimination by majorities, for example: same sex marriage In your opinion, why are these two terms so easily confused? -I think people confuse the two terms because they're used so interchangeably in America. Which court case divided the system of federal liberties from those to the states (prevented the application of the BR to state law)? -Barron v. Baltimore How are civil liberties and civil rights now connected to the states? Which court case started this process of incorporation? -Civil liberties and rights are now connected to the states through selective incorporation and SCOTUS decisions such as the beginning one of Gitlow v. New York. What two very important clauses came out of the 14th Amendment? Citizenship Clause Due Process Clause What is selective incorporation and how does it relate to your civil liberties and rights? -Selective incorporation is defined as a constitutional doctrine that ensures that states cannot create laws that infringe or take away the constitutional rights of citizens.

Describe the importance of the following court cases:

a) Brown v. Board of Education (1953) -stripped away constitutional sanctions for segregation by race, and made equal opportunity in education the law of the land. b) Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) -declared the evidence discovered the process of an illegal search could not be used in state courts. c) Engel v. Vitale (1963) -shields Americans from the establishment of state-sponsored religion. d) Miranda v. Arizona (1963) -Supreme Court ruled that detained criminal suspects must be informed of their constitutional right to an attorney and against self incrimination. e) Roe v. Wade (1973) -The decision gave a woman total autonomy over the pregnancy during the first trimester and defined different levels of state interest for the second and third trimesters. f) Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992) -Helped affirm the basic ruling of Roe Vs. Wade that the state is prohibited from banning most abortions.

Describe each of the following expressed roles of the President:

a) Commander in Chief -The role of the president as supreme commander of the military forces of the United States and of the state National Guard units when they are called into federal service. Chief of State. term for the President as the ceremonial head of the United States, the symbol of all the people of the nation. b) Chief Executive -a term used for Presidential powers given by a constitution or basic law, which allows its holder to implement policy, supervise executive branch of government, prepare executive budget for submission to the legislature, and appoint and remove executive officials. c) Head of State -the apolitical, unifying role of the president as symbolic representation of the whole country. d) Chief Diplomat -term for the President as the main architect of foreign policy and spokesperson to other countries. e) Chief Legislator - term of the President as architect of public policy and the one who sets the agenda for Congress.

Describe the role of each of the following cabinet departments:

a) Department of State - Carries out foreign policies, supervises ambassadors and other U.S. Diplomats, represents the U.S At the United Nations. The department of state provides representation throughout the world for the United States with ambassadors and foreign policy. b) Department of Defense -to Support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; Ensure, by timely and effective military action, the security of the United States, its possessions, and areas vital . c) Department of the Treasury -manage federal finances, collect taxes and other money paid to the government, print postage stamps, currency and coinage, investigate and prosecute tax evaders, counterfeiters, and foreigners. d) Department of Justice - to enforce the law and defend the interests of the United States according to the law; to ensure public safety against threats foreign and domestic; to provide federal leadership in preventing and controlling crime; to seek just punishment for those guilty of unlawful . e) Department of Homeland security -to secure the nation from the many threats we face. This requires the dedication of more than 240,000 employees in jobs that range from aviation and border security to emergency response, from cybersecurity analyst to chemical facility inspector. f) Department of Education -to "establish policy for, administer and coordinate most federal assistance to education, collect data on US schools, and to enforce federal educational laws regarding privacy and civil rights." The Department of Education does not establish schools or colleges. D. The Cabinet in Practice -Their role is to direct government policy and make decisions about national issues. Cabinet officers are nominated by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate by a majority vote.

Describe the functions of the following regulatory agencies:

a) Federal Communications Commission -is an independent agency of the United States government, created by Congressional statute to regulate interstate communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories. b) Federal Trade Commission -the nation's consumer protection agency and one of the government agencies responsible for keeping competition among businesses strong. Its job is to make sure companies compete fairly and don't mislead or trick people about their products and services. c) Securities and Exchange Commission -an independent federal government agency responsible for protecting investors, maintaining fair and orderly functioning of the securities markets, and facilitating capital formation. d) Central Intelligence Agency -CIA's primary mission is to collect, analyze, evaluate, and disseminate foreign intelligence to assist the President and senior US government policymakers in making decisions relating to national security. e) National Security Council -he President's principal forum for national security and foreign policy decision making with his or her senior national security advisors and cabinet officials, and the President's principal arm for coordinating these policies across federal agencies. f) Environmental Protection Agency -an independent executive agency responsible for controlling pollution of the air and water, as well as environmental damage from solid waste, pesticides, radiation, and toxic substances. g) The Federal Reserve System -It works to strengthen and stabilize the nations monetary system. It provides financial services to the government, regulates financial institutions, maintains the payment system, enforces consumer protection laws, and conducts monetary policy.

Define the following types of Supreme Court Opinions:

a) Majority Opinion - A statement that presents the views of the majority of supreme court justices regarding a case. b) Concurring Opinion -a signed opinion in which one or more members agree with the majority view but for different reasons. c) Dissenting Opinion - opinion disagreeing with the majority decision in a Supreme Court ruling. d) Per Curium Opinion -A brief, unsigned opinion issued by the supreme court to explain it's ruling. opinion of the court. A supreme court opinion written by one or more of the justices in the majority to explain the decision in the case.

Describe the importance of the following court cases:

a) Marbury v. Madison (1803) -it was the first U.S. Supreme Court case to apply "Judicial Review", and it allowed the Supreme Court to rule laws unconstitutional. b) McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) -The Court interpreted the delegated powers of Congress broadly, creating the potential for increased national powers. established the supremacy of the national government in all matters affecting interstate commerce. c) Gibbons v. Ogden (1824) - provided the federal government with the ability to regulate interstate commerce. d) Scott v. Sanford (1857) -Americans of African descent, whether free or slave, were not American citizens and could not sue in federal court. The Court also ruled that Congress lacked power to ban slavery in the U.S. territories.

Describe the roles of the following White House offices:

a) Office of Management and Budget -to assist the president in preparing the budget. The OMB also measures the quality of agency PROGRAMS, policies, and procedures and to see if they comply with the president's policies. b) National Security Council -Advice the president on foreign policies and national security. c) Council of Economic Affairs -They study the economy to see how economic events can affect the president's economic policy and how the president's policy is affecting the economy. Then, they advise the president on what to do.

Define the following types of committees:

a) Standing Committee -A permanent committee in Congress that oversees bills that deal with certain kinds of issues. b) Joint Committee -A committee composed of members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. c) Conference Committee -A temporary joint committee created to settle differences in versions of a bill passed by each house of Congress. d) Select Committee -A temporary legislative committee established for a limited time period and for a special purpose.

Describe how the following laws limit the power of bureaucracies:

a) The Administrative Procedure Act (1947) -A law passed in 1946 requiring federal agencies to give notice, solicit comments, and hold hearing before adopting new rules b) The Freedom of Information Act (1966) -A law passed in 1966 giving citizens the right to inspect all government records except those containing military, intelligence, or trade secrets or material revealing private personnel actions. c) The National Environmental Policy Act (1969) -a US environmental law that established a U.S. national policy promoting the enhancement of the environment and also established the President's Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). d) The Privacy Act of 1974 -a US federal law which establishes a Code of Fair Information Practice that governs the collection, maintenance, use, and dissemination of personally identifiable information about individuals that is maintained in systems of records by federal agencies e) The Open Meeting Law (1976) -which states that all government agency meetings must be open to the public unless issues such as military information or trade secrets are being discussed.

List the responsibilities of the following government corporations:

a) United States Postal Service -The USPS handles the mailing of letters and packages, sorting and delivering mail, and selling postal products like stamps, mailing supplies and commemoratives. b) Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation -to insure bank deposits in eligible banks against loss in the event of a bank failure and to regulate certain banking . c) National Aeronautics and Space Administration -NASA is a U.S. government agency that is responsible for science and technology related to air and space. The Space Age started in 1957 with the launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik. d) Tennessee Valley Authority -to provide navigation, flood control, electricity generation, fertilizer manufacturing, and economic development to the Tennessee Valley.