Benchmark 2.6/3.11 Key Terms (Trial Process / Structure & Function of Judicial Branch)
appeal: a request, made after a trial, asking a higher court to decide whether that trial was conducted properly
appellate court: any court that has the power to hear appeals from lower courts
bailiff: court official who keeps order in the court, calls witnesses, is in charge of and makes sure no one tries to influence the jury
case: a matter that goes before a judge or court of law
Chief Justice: the head justice, the Chief Justice is “first among equals”
circuit courts: a court for a defined region of a state (usually including several counties) that has specific divisions and hears cases involving more serious crimes (felonies) and civil cases involving large amounts of money (more than $1000)
civil case: a case involving the rights of citizens
county courts: a court that hears both civil and criminal cases involving less serious crimes or minor issues for one specific county
court: a place where justice is administered
court clerk: court officer responsible for giving the oath to jurors and witnesses, is also responsible for court paperwork and physical evidence
court reporter: court officer who records, word for word, everything that is said as part of the trial
criminal case: a case involving someone who is accused of committing an illegal activity
cross- examination: the follow-up questioning of a witness by the side that did not call the witness to the stand
defendant: the person who answers the legal action of a plaintiff
direct examination: the first questioning of a witness by the side that called the witness to the stand
District Court of Appeals: an appellate court in the state court system that reviews decisions made by the lower trial courts
federalism: a system of government in which power is divided and shared between national, state, and local government
Florida Circuit Courts: the courts that have general jurisdiction over matters not covered by the county courts
Florida County Courts: the courts where most non-jury trials occur; they are referred to as “the people’s courts” because they handle minor disagreements between citizens and minor criminal offenses
Florida Supreme Court: the highest court in Florida
judge: a public official who decides questions brought before a court
judicial branch: the branch of government that interprets the laws made by the legislative branch
judicial review: the power of the judicial branch to review the actions of the executive and legislative branches and determine whether or not they are unconstitutional (this includes laws passed by Congress); the U.S. Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison established this power
jurisdiction: the right and power for courts to hear a case, interpret and apply the law
juror: a member of a jury
jury: a group of citizens sworn to give a true verdict according to the evidence presented in a court of law
justice: the title given to judges of the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court
original jurisdiction: the power of a court to be the first to hear a case on a specific topic
plaintiff/prosecutor: the person who brings legal action against another person
trial court: the local, state, or federal court that is the first to hear a civil or criminal case; involves a hearing and decision with a single judge, with or without a jury
U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals: the courts where parties who are dissatisfied with the judgment of a U.S. District court may take their case
U.S. District Courts: the courts where most federal cases begin, the U.S. District Courts are courts of original jurisdiction and hear civil and criminal cases
U.S. Supreme Court: the highest court of the United States; it sits at the top of the federal court system
verdict: a judgment of the outcome of a trial delivered by the jury (or by the judge for bench trials)
Benchmark 3.7 Key Terms (The Evolution of Voting Rights)
13th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that abolished slavery (1865)
14th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that defines citizens as all persons born or naturalized in the U.S.; prohibits states from denying citizens life, liberty, or property without due process of law; prohibits states from denying any person equal protection of the law and describes consequences of states that deny it (1868)
15th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave African Americans (including former slaves) the right to vote (1870)
19th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave women the right to vote (1920)
24th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that made poll taxes illegal for federal elections (1964)
26th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that lowered the minimum voting age to 18 (1971)
Reconstruction: (1865-1877) The period of time when the federal government made efforts to reorganize the southern states as part of the Union after the Civil War.
states’ rights: Powers or issues that states determine for themselves, rather than the federal government (a.k.a. reserved powers)
civil rights: Basic rights of citizens to be free from unequal treatment based on certain characteristics (e.g., race, gender, disability, religion, etc.)
Civil Rights Act of 1964: A federal law that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin and banned segregation in public places including schools; it also prohibited states from using unfair voting requirements (but didn't specifically ban literacy tests).
Voting Rights Act of 1965: A federal law that banned race discrimination in voting practices by federal, state, and local governments
Civil Rights Act of 1968: A federal law that prohibits discrimination related to the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin or sex (a.k.a. Fair Housing Act)
discrimination: Treating a person or group unfairly based on their race, religion, gender, disability, or other reasons
poll tax: A fee someone has to pay in order to vote
literacy test: A written test used to decide whether or not someone was eligible to register vote
segregation: The separation of groups, usually by race
integration: Combining groups together (a.k.a. desegregation)
suffrage: The right to vote
Plessy v. Ferguson: (1896) Landmark Supreme Court decision which determined that "separate but equal" segregation is not unconstitutional and therefore legal.
Brown v. Board of Education: (1954) Landmark Supreme Court decision which determined that "separate but equal" does not provide equality to students and is therefore unconstitutional in public schools.
Benchmark 3.6 Key Terms (The Impact of Constitutional Rights)
public interest/general welfare/common good/greater good/public good: The principle or idea that some actions are taken in order to benefit society, rather than only individuals.
civil disobedience: The refusal to obey certain rules or laws as a form of protest and to raise awareness of a problem.
economic freedom: The freedom to produce, trade, or use any goods or services without use of force, fraud, or theft.
eminent domain: The right of the government to take private property for public use; the 5th Amendment requires that fair compensation be made when property is taken by the government.
forced internment: Confinement of a group of people where they are not allowed to leave (especially during a war).
freedom of assembly: The right to hold meetings and form groups without interference by the government; a right protected by the 1st Amendment.
freedom to petition the government: The right to address government for assistance in correcting an issue (a.k.a. redress of grievances) without fear of punishment; a right protected by the 1st Amendment.
property rights: The right to own property (mentioned in the 5th and 14th Amendments).
Benchmark 2.4 Key Terms (The Bill of Rights)
amendment: An official change or addition to a document (i.e. U.S. Constitution).
Bill of Rights: The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution that lists the rights and protections for the people.
cruel & unusual punishment: Torture or other inappropriate consequences for criminals; prohibited by the 8th amendment.
double jeopardy: Prohibited by the 5th amendment, this term refers to the prosecution of a defendant for a crime that he or she has already been put on trial for and found not guilty (acquitted).
due process of law: Established rules and procedures that must be followed in criminal arrests and prosecutions; protected by the 5th amendment.
eminent domain: This term refers to the right of the government to take private property for public use when needed. The 5th amendment assures that an individual must be paid a fair price for the property in such a case.
equal protection of the law: A guarantee in the 14th amendment that every state must treat all of its citizens (or classes of citizens) the same way under the same legal circumstances.
1st Amendment: Guarantees five basic freedoms: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, right to the press, right to assemble, right to petition the government.
pleading the fifth: The act of accused persons to refuse to testify on the grounds it may incriminate themselves.
right to bear arms: 2nd Amendment right to own/have weapons (typically referring to firearms/guns).
right to legal counsel: Right of the accused to have a defense attorney; protected by the 6th Amendment.
search & seizure (4th Amendment): The process by which authorities collect evidence (or suspects) with probable cause and/or warrants.
suffrage: The right to vote.
trial by jury: The right to have a trial that is decided by an impartial group of citizens rather than a judge; protected by the 6th Amendment.
unenumerated rights: According to the 9th Amendment, any right that is not specifically addressed in the U.S. Constitution may still be protected for the people.
Benchmark 3.3 Key Terms (Structure and Function of Government)
Legislative: the branch of government that creates laws
U.S. House of Representatives: the lower house of Congress where the number of delegates for each state depends upon the state's population
U.S. Senate: the upper house of Congress where each state has two delegates
Congress: the national legislative body of the U.S., consisting of the Senate & House of Representatives
Collect Taxes: power of the legislative branch to raise money to pay national debts and provide military defense; these bills must begin in the House of Representatives (and pass both chambers)
Naturalization Law: power of Congress to establish procedures by which an immigrant may obtain U.S. citizenship
Coining Money: power of the federal legislature to print money for the nation
Regulate Trade: power of Congress to control laws regarding purchase and sale of goods and services between states and with foreign nations
Declaration of War: power of federal legislative branches (both houses) to vote to go to war with another country
Impeachment: power of the House of Representatives to bring formal charges of wrongdoing against an elected government official
Impeachment Trials: power of the Senate to try all impeachments and pass judgement on whether to remove an elected official from office
Senate Approval: power of the Senate to vote whether or not to confirm Presidential appointments or approve treaties
Executive: the branch of government that enforces the laws made by the legislative branch
Commander-in-Chief: the power of the President to hold the position of official leader over all the U.S. Armed Forces
Presidential Appointment: the power of the president to select department heads, Ambassadors to foreign nations, Supreme Court Justices, and other U.S. officers (with Senate approval)
Pardons & Reprieves: the power of the president to officially "forgive" or set aside punishment of convicted federal criminals, EXCEPT in cases of impeachment
Judicial: the branch of government that interprets the laws made by the legislative branch
Supreme Court: the highest court in the United States
Original Jurisdiction: the power of a court to be the first to hear (hold trial on) a case
Appellate Jurisdiction: the power of a court to review cases which have been previously tried in lower courts
Necessary and Proper Clause: (a.k.a. elastic clause) clause in Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the ability to stretch its powers as needed in order to properly serve the United States
Articles: seven main parts (the body) of the U.S. Constitution
Supremacy Clause: Article VI of the Constitution that gives Congress the ability to stretch its powers as needed in order to properly serve the United States
Preamble: introduction to the Constitution stating its goals and purposes
Bill of Rights: the first 10 Amendments of the Constitution.
Amendments: changes or additions to the constitution that come after the main body
Enumerated Powers: the powers specifically named and assigned to the federal government or prohibited to be exercised by the states under the U.S. Constitution (a.k.a. delegated or expressed powers)
Implied Powers: powers not written in the U.S. Constitution but are "necessary and proper" in order for the federal government to carry out the expressed powers; Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 gives Congress the power to do what it deems "necessary and proper" to carry out the delegated powers
Benchmark 1.8 Key Terms (Federalists, Anti-Federalists, and the Constitution)
federalism: (a.k.a. federation, federal system of government) a system of government in which a strong central government divides and shares power with smaller state government.
Federalists: the group of people in the early United States who favored the idea of a strong central government (federalism) and who supported ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
Anti-Federalists: the group of people in the early United States who opposed ratification of the Constitution because they feared a strong central government would have too much power, especially without a bill of rights to protect individual freedoms.
The Federalist Papers: a series of essays written to support and defend the newly proposed U.S. Constitution.
Anti-Federalist Papers: a series of essays written against the proposed U.S. Constitution.
ratify: to formally approve something, such as a government document.
Bill of Rights: the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution which lists important rights and protections for U.S. residents and citizens.
Benchmark 1.6 Key Terms (The Preamble of the U.S. Constitution)
union: something formed by combining parts, such as states into one country
justice: a system of establishing what is legal and illegal by fair rules
insure: ensure, to make sure
domestic: referring to something at home, not foreign
tranquility: peace
defense: defense, method of protecting oneself
welfare: well-being
posterity: future generations
ordain: to establish something by law
Benchmark 1.2 Key Terms (Influences on Colonists' Views of Government)
absolute monarchy: A government ruled by a king or queen with complete authority over the people and the government.
limited monarchy: Government in which a king or queen shares authority with an elected legislature and agrees to be limited by laws or a constitution (also called a constitutional monarchy).
democracy: A government where people hold ruling authority.
direct democracy: A democracy where people (typically a small group) create and vote directly on laws.
representative democracy: A democracy where people elect leaders to make laws and govern (a.k.a. a republic)
Magna Carta: (Latin for "Great Charter") The earliest English government document that limited the power of the king and protected the rights of the nobility (written by the English nobles in 1215).
Mayflower Compact: A government document that was a written agreement by the English Puritans creating a direct democracy in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620
English Bill of Rights: A government document that further limited the king's power, expanded the power of Parliament, and gave more rights to the people (written by English Parliament in 1689).
Common Sense: A pamphlet written and published by Thomas Paine in 1776 to persuade American colonists to support independence from England.
compact: An official agreement or contract.
preamble: An introduction to a document stating its purpose.
limited government: A government whose power is not absolute: they share authority and have limits.
rule of law: The principle that the law applies to everyone equally -- even those who govern.
rights: Things that individuals should be free to do.
due process of law: The principle that the government must follow established rules and procedures when enforcing laws so that everyone is treated fairly.
charter: A written document signed by a country's legislative authority creating an institution and defining its rights and limits.
Benchmark 1.1 Key Terms (The Influence of the Enlightenment)
enlightenment: A period in European history when people came to understand that knowledge and reasoning could solve problems of society and government.
Founding Fathers: Representatives from each of the 13 colonies who participated in creating and adopting the Declaration of Independence and later, the U.S. Constitution.
natural rights: The idea that people are born with basic rights (including life, liberty, and property) that cannot be taken away by governments.
natural law: Laws passed to protect natural rights
individual liberty: A person’s natural right to be free.
influence: Having an effect or impact on another’s beliefs or actions.
consent of the governed: An implied agreement made by the people to abide by the rules and laws of their government.
separation of powers: The structure of government that sets up three branches that have their own specific powers and responsibilities.
checks and balances: A principle of government that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches.
social contract: An implied agreement between people and government in which the people agree to give up some freedom and be ruled by the gov’t in exchange for the government’s protection of the people and their rights; if the government fails to protect the rights of the people, the people have a right to rebel and abolish it.
Benchmark 2.7/2.9 Key Terms (Candidates & Elections)
candidate: a person running for political office
elector: a person who has the right to vote in an election
evaluate: to determine or to judge
issue-based platform: a document stating the goals and principles of a political party or political candidate, also known as a political platform
natural born citizen: someone who was born in the U.S. or born to U.S. citizens
political office: a position for which a candidate is elected to hold
political official: a person holding an elected office
qualifications (for political office): the traits and accomplishments that fit a person for some function or office
requirement (for political office): something necessary to run for political office
vote: to elect or decide
incumbent: an elected official currently holding office who is running for re-election
Benchmark 2.8 Key Terms (Political Parties)
candidate: a person running for political office
government: a system for exercising authority over (i.e. governing) a body of people
political party: an organized group of voters who have similar political views and seek to gain power by electing candidates into office so their perspective can be reflected in public policy and government
political platform: a statement outlining a political parties views on the issues facing the nation; the set of beliefs a political party stands on
society: a body of individuals living as members of a community
Republican Party: a political party that believes that the federal government should play a less active role in people's lives and that individuals can take care of themselves without government help
Democratic Party: a political party that believes that the federal government should take a more active role in people's lives, particularly in assisting those who are in need
third party: a political party that is not one of the two major parties in the country; a minor party
Communist Party: a political party that believes the government should control all production and distribution of goods so that the largest portion of society – the working class – isn’t controlled by the wealthy
Socialist Party: a political party that believes people should own and control industry through democratically controlled public agencies, cooperatives, or other collective groups
Libertarian Party: a political party that believes in individual freedom and the only purpose of government is to protect this freedom
two-party system: a political system consisting primarily of two major parties, more or less equal in strength
political system: the principles, ideas, and procedures related to a form of government (such as a Democracy or a Republic); the way our government operates
Benchmark 2.11 Key Terms (Media & Political Communications)
bias: a preference or opinion; favoring one way of thinking or feeling over another
propaganda: media that uses special techniques to spread messages for the purpose of persuading or manipulating people’s feelings, beliefs, and/or actions
symbolism: the use of an object or image to represent ideas, feelings, or qualities
political communication: the use of media to convey messages or information related to government issues, campaigns or public offices
media: Means of communication such as television, radio, internet, magazines, newspaper, etc. “The Media” can also be used to mean the press our sources of news in general.
glittering generalities: propaganda technique that uses short, catchy phrases or clever slogans that aim to connect positive emotions to someone or something.
card stacking: propaganda technique that provides information that is purposely one-sided
name calling: propaganda technique that uses negative words or images associated with someone or something
plain folks: propaganda technique that presents a candidate (or other person) as a “regular person”, just like everyone else.
testimonial: propaganda technique that uses a celebrity or spokesperson to speak on behalf of someone or something
transfer: propaganda technique that uses symbols to represent a message or feeling which is intended to connect to someone or something.
bandwagon: propaganda technique that encourages the viewer to like someone or something because its popular.
Benchmark 2.10 Key Terms (Monitoring & Influencing Government)
Impact: to have a strong effect on something or someone
Influence: having an effect or impact on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of another or others
Interest Group: a group of people who are concerned with a particular issue and who try to influence legislators to act in their favor, also known as a special interest group
Lobbying: participating in activities in order to influence government officials
Lobbyist: a person who participates in activities in order to influence government officials
Media: plural form of the word “medium,” refers to various means of communication. For example, television, radio, newspapers and the Internet (web) are different types of media. The term can also be used to describe news organizations as a whole group.
Monitor: to watch, keep track of, or check usually for a special purpose
Petitioning the Government: the right to ask the government to solve a problem or to express an opinion about how the government is being run
Political Action Committee (PAC): an independent political organization that promotes the cause of a particular interest group, usually through raising money and campaigning to elect candidates who support the group's views
Public Agenda: a list of issues that much of society agrees are a priority
Public Policy: government actions in the form of laws, rules, or regulations
Public Sphere: the issues society discusses that affect everyone
Watchdog: a person or group who acts as a protector or guardian
Benchmark 1.9 Key Terms (The Rule of Law)
Citizen: a legal member of a state and/or country
Law: a rule established by government
Rule of Law: The idea that those who govern must follow the laws; no one is above the law.
Accountability to the Law: Accountability to the Law – (checks and balances) – All people in the nation are legally obligated to obey the law – even government leaders.
Procedural Fairness: Fair Procedures – (procedural fairness) Established procedures that are known must be followed by law enforcement and the courts. This can also be called due process of law.
Consistent Application of Law: Consistent Application of Law – (equal application) – All individuals must be treated equally under the legal system – from the very poor to the very powerful and everyone in between.
Enforcement of Law: Enforcement of Law – (order and security) – One main goal of the law is to provide human security by protecting their fundamental rights and by trying to prevent crime and violence by punishing offenders.
Transparency of Institutions: Transparency of institutions – (access to justice) – The people have a right to know the laws and how to get justice through the legal system. Trials take place in public so people can see they are fair.
Decisions Based on Law: Decisions Based on Law – (legitimacy) – People generally respect and follow the laws because they are reasonable and helpful to society.
Benchmark 2.2/2.3 Key Terms (Evaluate the responsibilities & obligations of citizens)
common good: Actions that benefit to the community as a whole rather than individual interests (a.k.a. the public good)
obligation: something a person or government is required to do
responsibility: something a person should do
selective service: a system by which men ages 18 through 25 register with the U.S. government for military service
Benchmark 2.1 Key Terms (Define “citizen,” and identify legal means of becoming a U.S. citizen)
14th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that defined citizenship, granted citizenship to former slaves, and defined voters as males at least 21 years of age.
alien: Any person not a citizen or national of a country.
citizen: A legal member of a state and/or country.
immigrant: A person who comes to a country to live there permanently (may be legal or illegal).
law of blood: A person's citizenship at birth is the same as that of his or her biological mother or father.
law of soil: A person's citizenship at birth is determined by the country where he or she was born.
legal permanent resident: Someone who is legally and permanently living in the U.S., but not a citizen.
naturalization: The process by which an immigrant becomes a citizen.
resident: A person who lives somewhere on a long-term basis.
refugee: A person who has been forced to leave their country to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
treason: The act/crime of betraying your country.
natural-born citizen: A person who is a citizen from birth
rights: Freedoms, things you are permitted to do.
allegiance: Loyalty to a person, country, or belief.
appeal: a request, made after a trial, asking a higher court to decide whether that trial was conducted properly
appellate court: any court that has the power to hear appeals from lower courts
bailiff: court official who keeps order in the court, calls witnesses, is in charge of and makes sure no one tries to influence the jury
case: a matter that goes before a judge or court of law
Chief Justice: the head justice, the Chief Justice is “first among equals”
circuit courts: a court for a defined region of a state (usually including several counties) that has specific divisions and hears cases involving more serious crimes (felonies) and civil cases involving large amounts of money (more than $1000)
civil case: a case involving the rights of citizens
county courts: a court that hears both civil and criminal cases involving less serious crimes or minor issues for one specific county
court: a place where justice is administered
court clerk: court officer responsible for giving the oath to jurors and witnesses, is also responsible for court paperwork and physical evidence
court reporter: court officer who records, word for word, everything that is said as part of the trial
criminal case: a case involving someone who is accused of committing an illegal activity
cross- examination: the follow-up questioning of a witness by the side that did not call the witness to the stand
defendant: the person who answers the legal action of a plaintiff
direct examination: the first questioning of a witness by the side that called the witness to the stand
District Court of Appeals: an appellate court in the state court system that reviews decisions made by the lower trial courts
federalism: a system of government in which power is divided and shared between national, state, and local government
Florida Circuit Courts: the courts that have general jurisdiction over matters not covered by the county courts
Florida County Courts: the courts where most non-jury trials occur; they are referred to as “the people’s courts” because they handle minor disagreements between citizens and minor criminal offenses
Florida Supreme Court: the highest court in Florida
judge: a public official who decides questions brought before a court
judicial branch: the branch of government that interprets the laws made by the legislative branch
judicial review: the power of the judicial branch to review the actions of the executive and legislative branches and determine whether or not they are unconstitutional (this includes laws passed by Congress); the U.S. Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison established this power
jurisdiction: the right and power for courts to hear a case, interpret and apply the law
juror: a member of a jury
jury: a group of citizens sworn to give a true verdict according to the evidence presented in a court of law
justice: the title given to judges of the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court
original jurisdiction: the power of a court to be the first to hear a case on a specific topic
plaintiff/prosecutor: the person who brings legal action against another person
trial court: the local, state, or federal court that is the first to hear a civil or criminal case; involves a hearing and decision with a single judge, with or without a jury
U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals: the courts where parties who are dissatisfied with the judgment of a U.S. District court may take their case
U.S. District Courts: the courts where most federal cases begin, the U.S. District Courts are courts of original jurisdiction and hear civil and criminal cases
U.S. Supreme Court: the highest court of the United States; it sits at the top of the federal court system
verdict: a judgment of the outcome of a trial delivered by the jury (or by the judge for bench trials)
Benchmark 3.7 Key Terms (The Evolution of Voting Rights)
13th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that abolished slavery (1865)
14th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that defines citizens as all persons born or naturalized in the U.S.; prohibits states from denying citizens life, liberty, or property without due process of law; prohibits states from denying any person equal protection of the law and describes consequences of states that deny it (1868)
15th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave African Americans (including former slaves) the right to vote (1870)
19th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave women the right to vote (1920)
24th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that made poll taxes illegal for federal elections (1964)
26th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that lowered the minimum voting age to 18 (1971)
Reconstruction: (1865-1877) The period of time when the federal government made efforts to reorganize the southern states as part of the Union after the Civil War.
states’ rights: Powers or issues that states determine for themselves, rather than the federal government (a.k.a. reserved powers)
civil rights: Basic rights of citizens to be free from unequal treatment based on certain characteristics (e.g., race, gender, disability, religion, etc.)
Civil Rights Act of 1964: A federal law that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin and banned segregation in public places including schools; it also prohibited states from using unfair voting requirements (but didn't specifically ban literacy tests).
Voting Rights Act of 1965: A federal law that banned race discrimination in voting practices by federal, state, and local governments
Civil Rights Act of 1968: A federal law that prohibits discrimination related to the sale, rental and financing of housing based on race, religion, national origin or sex (a.k.a. Fair Housing Act)
discrimination: Treating a person or group unfairly based on their race, religion, gender, disability, or other reasons
poll tax: A fee someone has to pay in order to vote
literacy test: A written test used to decide whether or not someone was eligible to register vote
segregation: The separation of groups, usually by race
integration: Combining groups together (a.k.a. desegregation)
suffrage: The right to vote
Plessy v. Ferguson: (1896) Landmark Supreme Court decision which determined that "separate but equal" segregation is not unconstitutional and therefore legal.
Brown v. Board of Education: (1954) Landmark Supreme Court decision which determined that "separate but equal" does not provide equality to students and is therefore unconstitutional in public schools.
Benchmark 3.6 Key Terms (The Impact of Constitutional Rights)
public interest/general welfare/common good/greater good/public good: The principle or idea that some actions are taken in order to benefit society, rather than only individuals.
civil disobedience: The refusal to obey certain rules or laws as a form of protest and to raise awareness of a problem.
economic freedom: The freedom to produce, trade, or use any goods or services without use of force, fraud, or theft.
eminent domain: The right of the government to take private property for public use; the 5th Amendment requires that fair compensation be made when property is taken by the government.
forced internment: Confinement of a group of people where they are not allowed to leave (especially during a war).
freedom of assembly: The right to hold meetings and form groups without interference by the government; a right protected by the 1st Amendment.
freedom to petition the government: The right to address government for assistance in correcting an issue (a.k.a. redress of grievances) without fear of punishment; a right protected by the 1st Amendment.
property rights: The right to own property (mentioned in the 5th and 14th Amendments).
Benchmark 2.4 Key Terms (The Bill of Rights)
amendment: An official change or addition to a document (i.e. U.S. Constitution).
Bill of Rights: The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution that lists the rights and protections for the people.
cruel & unusual punishment: Torture or other inappropriate consequences for criminals; prohibited by the 8th amendment.
double jeopardy: Prohibited by the 5th amendment, this term refers to the prosecution of a defendant for a crime that he or she has already been put on trial for and found not guilty (acquitted).
due process of law: Established rules and procedures that must be followed in criminal arrests and prosecutions; protected by the 5th amendment.
eminent domain: This term refers to the right of the government to take private property for public use when needed. The 5th amendment assures that an individual must be paid a fair price for the property in such a case.
equal protection of the law: A guarantee in the 14th amendment that every state must treat all of its citizens (or classes of citizens) the same way under the same legal circumstances.
1st Amendment: Guarantees five basic freedoms: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, right to the press, right to assemble, right to petition the government.
pleading the fifth: The act of accused persons to refuse to testify on the grounds it may incriminate themselves.
right to bear arms: 2nd Amendment right to own/have weapons (typically referring to firearms/guns).
right to legal counsel: Right of the accused to have a defense attorney; protected by the 6th Amendment.
search & seizure (4th Amendment): The process by which authorities collect evidence (or suspects) with probable cause and/or warrants.
suffrage: The right to vote.
trial by jury: The right to have a trial that is decided by an impartial group of citizens rather than a judge; protected by the 6th Amendment.
unenumerated rights: According to the 9th Amendment, any right that is not specifically addressed in the U.S. Constitution may still be protected for the people.
Benchmark 3.3 Key Terms (Structure and Function of Government)
Legislative: the branch of government that creates laws
U.S. House of Representatives: the lower house of Congress where the number of delegates for each state depends upon the state's population
U.S. Senate: the upper house of Congress where each state has two delegates
Congress: the national legislative body of the U.S., consisting of the Senate & House of Representatives
Collect Taxes: power of the legislative branch to raise money to pay national debts and provide military defense; these bills must begin in the House of Representatives (and pass both chambers)
Naturalization Law: power of Congress to establish procedures by which an immigrant may obtain U.S. citizenship
Coining Money: power of the federal legislature to print money for the nation
Regulate Trade: power of Congress to control laws regarding purchase and sale of goods and services between states and with foreign nations
Declaration of War: power of federal legislative branches (both houses) to vote to go to war with another country
Impeachment: power of the House of Representatives to bring formal charges of wrongdoing against an elected government official
Impeachment Trials: power of the Senate to try all impeachments and pass judgement on whether to remove an elected official from office
Senate Approval: power of the Senate to vote whether or not to confirm Presidential appointments or approve treaties
Executive: the branch of government that enforces the laws made by the legislative branch
Commander-in-Chief: the power of the President to hold the position of official leader over all the U.S. Armed Forces
Presidential Appointment: the power of the president to select department heads, Ambassadors to foreign nations, Supreme Court Justices, and other U.S. officers (with Senate approval)
Pardons & Reprieves: the power of the president to officially "forgive" or set aside punishment of convicted federal criminals, EXCEPT in cases of impeachment
Judicial: the branch of government that interprets the laws made by the legislative branch
Supreme Court: the highest court in the United States
Original Jurisdiction: the power of a court to be the first to hear (hold trial on) a case
Appellate Jurisdiction: the power of a court to review cases which have been previously tried in lower courts
Necessary and Proper Clause: (a.k.a. elastic clause) clause in Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the ability to stretch its powers as needed in order to properly serve the United States
Articles: seven main parts (the body) of the U.S. Constitution
Supremacy Clause: Article VI of the Constitution that gives Congress the ability to stretch its powers as needed in order to properly serve the United States
Preamble: introduction to the Constitution stating its goals and purposes
Bill of Rights: the first 10 Amendments of the Constitution.
Amendments: changes or additions to the constitution that come after the main body
Enumerated Powers: the powers specifically named and assigned to the federal government or prohibited to be exercised by the states under the U.S. Constitution (a.k.a. delegated or expressed powers)
Implied Powers: powers not written in the U.S. Constitution but are "necessary and proper" in order for the federal government to carry out the expressed powers; Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 gives Congress the power to do what it deems "necessary and proper" to carry out the delegated powers
Benchmark 1.8 Key Terms (Federalists, Anti-Federalists, and the Constitution)
federalism: (a.k.a. federation, federal system of government) a system of government in which a strong central government divides and shares power with smaller state government.
Federalists: the group of people in the early United States who favored the idea of a strong central government (federalism) and who supported ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
Anti-Federalists: the group of people in the early United States who opposed ratification of the Constitution because they feared a strong central government would have too much power, especially without a bill of rights to protect individual freedoms.
The Federalist Papers: a series of essays written to support and defend the newly proposed U.S. Constitution.
Anti-Federalist Papers: a series of essays written against the proposed U.S. Constitution.
ratify: to formally approve something, such as a government document.
Bill of Rights: the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution which lists important rights and protections for U.S. residents and citizens.
Benchmark 1.6 Key Terms (The Preamble of the U.S. Constitution)
union: something formed by combining parts, such as states into one country
justice: a system of establishing what is legal and illegal by fair rules
insure: ensure, to make sure
domestic: referring to something at home, not foreign
tranquility: peace
defense: defense, method of protecting oneself
welfare: well-being
posterity: future generations
ordain: to establish something by law
Benchmark 1.2 Key Terms (Influences on Colonists' Views of Government)
absolute monarchy: A government ruled by a king or queen with complete authority over the people and the government.
limited monarchy: Government in which a king or queen shares authority with an elected legislature and agrees to be limited by laws or a constitution (also called a constitutional monarchy).
democracy: A government where people hold ruling authority.
direct democracy: A democracy where people (typically a small group) create and vote directly on laws.
representative democracy: A democracy where people elect leaders to make laws and govern (a.k.a. a republic)
Magna Carta: (Latin for "Great Charter") The earliest English government document that limited the power of the king and protected the rights of the nobility (written by the English nobles in 1215).
Mayflower Compact: A government document that was a written agreement by the English Puritans creating a direct democracy in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620
English Bill of Rights: A government document that further limited the king's power, expanded the power of Parliament, and gave more rights to the people (written by English Parliament in 1689).
Common Sense: A pamphlet written and published by Thomas Paine in 1776 to persuade American colonists to support independence from England.
compact: An official agreement or contract.
preamble: An introduction to a document stating its purpose.
limited government: A government whose power is not absolute: they share authority and have limits.
rule of law: The principle that the law applies to everyone equally -- even those who govern.
rights: Things that individuals should be free to do.
due process of law: The principle that the government must follow established rules and procedures when enforcing laws so that everyone is treated fairly.
charter: A written document signed by a country's legislative authority creating an institution and defining its rights and limits.
Benchmark 1.1 Key Terms (The Influence of the Enlightenment)
enlightenment: A period in European history when people came to understand that knowledge and reasoning could solve problems of society and government.
Founding Fathers: Representatives from each of the 13 colonies who participated in creating and adopting the Declaration of Independence and later, the U.S. Constitution.
natural rights: The idea that people are born with basic rights (including life, liberty, and property) that cannot be taken away by governments.
natural law: Laws passed to protect natural rights
individual liberty: A person’s natural right to be free.
influence: Having an effect or impact on another’s beliefs or actions.
consent of the governed: An implied agreement made by the people to abide by the rules and laws of their government.
separation of powers: The structure of government that sets up three branches that have their own specific powers and responsibilities.
checks and balances: A principle of government that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches.
social contract: An implied agreement between people and government in which the people agree to give up some freedom and be ruled by the gov’t in exchange for the government’s protection of the people and their rights; if the government fails to protect the rights of the people, the people have a right to rebel and abolish it.
Benchmark 2.7/2.9 Key Terms (Candidates & Elections)
candidate: a person running for political office
elector: a person who has the right to vote in an election
evaluate: to determine or to judge
issue-based platform: a document stating the goals and principles of a political party or political candidate, also known as a political platform
natural born citizen: someone who was born in the U.S. or born to U.S. citizens
political office: a position for which a candidate is elected to hold
political official: a person holding an elected office
qualifications (for political office): the traits and accomplishments that fit a person for some function or office
requirement (for political office): something necessary to run for political office
vote: to elect or decide
incumbent: an elected official currently holding office who is running for re-election
Benchmark 2.8 Key Terms (Political Parties)
candidate: a person running for political office
government: a system for exercising authority over (i.e. governing) a body of people
political party: an organized group of voters who have similar political views and seek to gain power by electing candidates into office so their perspective can be reflected in public policy and government
political platform: a statement outlining a political parties views on the issues facing the nation; the set of beliefs a political party stands on
society: a body of individuals living as members of a community
Republican Party: a political party that believes that the federal government should play a less active role in people's lives and that individuals can take care of themselves without government help
Democratic Party: a political party that believes that the federal government should take a more active role in people's lives, particularly in assisting those who are in need
third party: a political party that is not one of the two major parties in the country; a minor party
Communist Party: a political party that believes the government should control all production and distribution of goods so that the largest portion of society – the working class – isn’t controlled by the wealthy
Socialist Party: a political party that believes people should own and control industry through democratically controlled public agencies, cooperatives, or other collective groups
Libertarian Party: a political party that believes in individual freedom and the only purpose of government is to protect this freedom
two-party system: a political system consisting primarily of two major parties, more or less equal in strength
political system: the principles, ideas, and procedures related to a form of government (such as a Democracy or a Republic); the way our government operates
Benchmark 2.11 Key Terms (Media & Political Communications)
bias: a preference or opinion; favoring one way of thinking or feeling over another
propaganda: media that uses special techniques to spread messages for the purpose of persuading or manipulating people’s feelings, beliefs, and/or actions
symbolism: the use of an object or image to represent ideas, feelings, or qualities
political communication: the use of media to convey messages or information related to government issues, campaigns or public offices
media: Means of communication such as television, radio, internet, magazines, newspaper, etc. “The Media” can also be used to mean the press our sources of news in general.
glittering generalities: propaganda technique that uses short, catchy phrases or clever slogans that aim to connect positive emotions to someone or something.
card stacking: propaganda technique that provides information that is purposely one-sided
name calling: propaganda technique that uses negative words or images associated with someone or something
plain folks: propaganda technique that presents a candidate (or other person) as a “regular person”, just like everyone else.
testimonial: propaganda technique that uses a celebrity or spokesperson to speak on behalf of someone or something
transfer: propaganda technique that uses symbols to represent a message or feeling which is intended to connect to someone or something.
bandwagon: propaganda technique that encourages the viewer to like someone or something because its popular.
Benchmark 2.10 Key Terms (Monitoring & Influencing Government)
Impact: to have a strong effect on something or someone
Influence: having an effect or impact on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of another or others
Interest Group: a group of people who are concerned with a particular issue and who try to influence legislators to act in their favor, also known as a special interest group
Lobbying: participating in activities in order to influence government officials
Lobbyist: a person who participates in activities in order to influence government officials
Media: plural form of the word “medium,” refers to various means of communication. For example, television, radio, newspapers and the Internet (web) are different types of media. The term can also be used to describe news organizations as a whole group.
Monitor: to watch, keep track of, or check usually for a special purpose
Petitioning the Government: the right to ask the government to solve a problem or to express an opinion about how the government is being run
Political Action Committee (PAC): an independent political organization that promotes the cause of a particular interest group, usually through raising money and campaigning to elect candidates who support the group's views
Public Agenda: a list of issues that much of society agrees are a priority
Public Policy: government actions in the form of laws, rules, or regulations
Public Sphere: the issues society discusses that affect everyone
Watchdog: a person or group who acts as a protector or guardian
Benchmark 1.9 Key Terms (The Rule of Law)
Citizen: a legal member of a state and/or country
Law: a rule established by government
Rule of Law: The idea that those who govern must follow the laws; no one is above the law.
Accountability to the Law: Accountability to the Law – (checks and balances) – All people in the nation are legally obligated to obey the law – even government leaders.
Procedural Fairness: Fair Procedures – (procedural fairness) Established procedures that are known must be followed by law enforcement and the courts. This can also be called due process of law.
Consistent Application of Law: Consistent Application of Law – (equal application) – All individuals must be treated equally under the legal system – from the very poor to the very powerful and everyone in between.
Enforcement of Law: Enforcement of Law – (order and security) – One main goal of the law is to provide human security by protecting their fundamental rights and by trying to prevent crime and violence by punishing offenders.
Transparency of Institutions: Transparency of institutions – (access to justice) – The people have a right to know the laws and how to get justice through the legal system. Trials take place in public so people can see they are fair.
Decisions Based on Law: Decisions Based on Law – (legitimacy) – People generally respect and follow the laws because they are reasonable and helpful to society.
Benchmark 2.2/2.3 Key Terms (Evaluate the responsibilities & obligations of citizens)
common good: Actions that benefit to the community as a whole rather than individual interests (a.k.a. the public good)
obligation: something a person or government is required to do
responsibility: something a person should do
selective service: a system by which men ages 18 through 25 register with the U.S. government for military service
Benchmark 2.1 Key Terms (Define “citizen,” and identify legal means of becoming a U.S. citizen)
14th Amendment: Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that defined citizenship, granted citizenship to former slaves, and defined voters as males at least 21 years of age.
alien: Any person not a citizen or national of a country.
citizen: A legal member of a state and/or country.
immigrant: A person who comes to a country to live there permanently (may be legal or illegal).
law of blood: A person's citizenship at birth is the same as that of his or her biological mother or father.
law of soil: A person's citizenship at birth is determined by the country where he or she was born.
legal permanent resident: Someone who is legally and permanently living in the U.S., but not a citizen.
naturalization: The process by which an immigrant becomes a citizen.
resident: A person who lives somewhere on a long-term basis.
refugee: A person who has been forced to leave their country to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
treason: The act/crime of betraying your country.
natural-born citizen: A person who is a citizen from birth
rights: Freedoms, things you are permitted to do.
allegiance: Loyalty to a person, country, or belief.