The Constitution - AP U.S. History

Which clause provides that Congress can regulate commerce?

The Commerce Clause. Regulates interstate and international trade activity.
What does the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment ensure?

No state shall deny any person equal protection of the laws. Prohibits discriminatory treatment under state laws.
How can Congress override a presidential veto?

By a two-thirds majority in both houses. Supermajority requirement ensures broad legislative support.
What power does the Necessary and Proper Clause grant Congress?

To make laws required for executing its enumerated powers. Grants implied powers beyond those explicitly listed.
Identify the main function of the Legislative Branch.

To make laws. Congress creates statutes and regulations for the nation.
What does the Fifteenth Amendment guarantee?

The right to vote regardless of race, color, or previous servitude. Prohibits racial discrimination in voting access nationwide.
Who has the power to veto bills?

The President. Executive check on legislative power through rejection authority.
How is the President of the United States elected?

By the Electoral College. Indirect democracy through state-based electoral representatives.
Which body has the power to impeach the President?

The House of Representatives. Lower chamber initiates removal proceedings for misconduct.
What is the primary purpose of the Constitution's Preamble?

To state the goals and purposes of the government. It outlines the Constitution's fundamental objectives and principles.
Which amendment gave women the right to vote?

The Nineteenth Amendment. Achieved after decades of suffrage movement activism.
What is the term length for a member of the House of Representatives?

2 years. Short terms ensure frequent accountability to voters.
What does the Due Process Clause of the Fifth Amendment protect?

Individuals from being deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. Requires fair legal procedures before government punishment.
What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?

To protect individual liberties and rights. First ten amendments safeguard fundamental personal freedoms.
Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The Thirteenth Amendment. Ended involuntary servitude throughout the United States permanently.
Which amendment prohibits excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment?

The Eighth Amendment. Prevents excessive penalties and inhumane treatment by government.
What issue is addressed in Article III of the Constitution?

The structure and powers of the Judicial Branch. Creates federal court system and judicial review authority.
Which amendment provides the right to a speedy and public trial?

The Sixth Amendment. Ensures fair legal proceedings and representation rights.
What does the Full Faith and Credit Clause require states to do?

Respect the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states. Promotes legal consistency across state boundaries.
What does Article I of the Constitution address?

The powers and structure of the Legislative Branch. Establishes Congress with enumerated powers and bicameral structure.
What is the main function of the Executive Branch?

To enforce laws. President implements and administers federal legislation.
Which clause allows Congress to levy taxes?

The Taxing and Spending Clause. Provides federal revenue for governmental operations.
What is the minimum age requirement for voting in the U.S.?

18 years old, as established by the Twenty-Sixth Amendment. Lowered from 21 to expand youth political participation.
Which branch of government has the power to declare war?

The Legislative Branch (Congress). Military decisions require legislative approval, not executive alone.
Identify the amendment that grants citizenship to all persons born in the U.S.

The Fourteenth Amendment. Establishes birthright citizenship and equal protection principles.
What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?

6 years. Longer terms provide stability in the upper chamber.
Which principle is established by the Supremacy Clause?

Federal law takes precedence over state laws. Federal authority overrides conflicting state legislation.
What is the main purpose of the Constitution's system of federalism?

To divide power between the federal and state governments. Balances national unity with local self-governance.
What right does the Second Amendment protect?

The right to keep and bear arms. Protects individual firearm ownership and militia service.
How many amendments does the Constitution currently have?

27 amendments. Reflects ongoing constitutional evolution since 1787 ratification.
Which amendment protects the freedom of speech?

The First Amendment. Guarantees expression rights alongside religion, press, and assembly.
Identify the clause that protects the right to free exercise of religion.

The Free Exercise Clause. Protects religious practice from government interference.
Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting the Constitution?

The Judicial Branch. Courts determine constitutional meaning through judicial review.
Identify the amendment that lowered the voting age to 18.

The Twenty-Sixth Amendment. Extended voting rights during Vietnam War era.
What is the role of the Vice President in the Senate?

To serve as President of the Senate and break ties. Limited legislative role with tie-breaking authority only.
What is the main focus of Article II of the Constitution?

The powers and duties of the Executive Branch. Outlines presidential authority and administrative responsibilities.
What does the Establishment Clause prohibit?

The government from establishing an official religion. Ensures separation of church and state institutions.
Which amendment prohibits the quartering of soldiers in private homes?

The Third Amendment. Prevents forced housing of military personnel during peacetime.
What does the Tenth Amendment state about powers not delegated to the U.S.?

They are reserved to the states or the people. Protects state sovereignty over unlisted governmental powers.
What is the purpose of the system of checks and balances?

To prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. Each branch can limit the others' authority through specific mechanisms.

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