AP Government Exam Review 2024/2025| Bundled Questions Unit 1-14| Verified Answers

AP Government Exam Review 2024/2025| Bundled Questions Unit 1-14| Verified Answers What is the definition of **checks and balances** in the U.S. Constitution? A system that ensures that no branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others. What is the purpose of **federalism**? To divide power between national and state governments, allowing for a balance of authority. What does **the rule of law** mean? The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law, which is applied equally and fairly. What was the outcome of the **Constitutional Convention of 1787**? The creation of a new Constitution that established a stronger federal government with checks and balances. What is the **Elastic Clause**? A provision in the Constitution that allows Congress to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. What are the **Federalist Papers**? A series of essays written to support the ratification of the Constitution and explain the principles of the government. 2 What does **dual federalism** refer to? A system where state and national governments operate independently in their own spheres of authority. What is the significance of **McCulloch v. Maryland** (1819)? It affirmed the supremacy of the national government and the implied powers of Congress. What does the **incorporation doctrine** do? It extends the protections of the Bill of Rights to state governments through the Fourteenth Amendment. What is the difference between **civil liberties** and **civil rights**? Civil liberties are individual freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, while civil rights protect individuals from discrimination. What role does the **Supreme Court** play in the U.S. government? It interprets the Constitution and has the final say on legal disputes involving federal law. What is the importance of the **Twenty-Fourth Amendment**? It prohibits the use of poll taxes in federal elections, removing a barrier to voting. What is the process of **judicial activism**? The philosophy that judges should interpret the Constitution in a way that reflects contemporary values and social conditions. 3 What does the term **political efficacy** refer to? The belief that individuals can influence government and that their participation matters. What is the function of the **U.S. Census**? To count the population every ten years, which is used to allocate congressional seats and federal funding. What is the significance of **Roe v. Wade** (1973)? It established a woman's right to choose to have an abortion, framing it within the right to privacy. What is the primary goal of **political parties**? To win elections and influence government policy by organizing voters around shared beliefs and interests. What is **realignment** in the context of political parties? A significant and lasting shift in party allegiance among voters, often changing the political landscape. What does the term **primary election** mean? An election in which members of a political party nominate candidates for the general election. What is the role of **third parties** in U.S. politics? To introduce new ideas, influence major party platforms, and sometimes act as spoilers in elections. 4 What is the purpose of **campaign finance laws**? To regulate the flow of money in political campaigns, ensuring transparency and limiting the influence of money in politics. What does **incumbency** refer to in elections? The holding of an office or position, often giving the incumbent an advantage in re-electio