AP U.S. History Flashcards: The Constitution
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is federalism, as described in the context of the Constitution's creation?
Federalism is a principle embodied in the Constitution that creates a limited but dynamic central government, sharing power with the states.
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What is federalism, as described in the context of the Constitution's creation?
Federalism is a principle embodied in the Constitution that creates a limited but dynamic central government, sharing power with the states.
Describe the nature of the central government established by the Constitution.
The Constitution established a central government that was designed to be both limited in its authority and dynamic in its functions.
The text mentions 'continuities and changes' with the Constitution's ratification. What was a major 'change' it introduced?
A major change was the creation of a new government structure featuring a central government with three separate branches embodying federalism.
What is the principle of 'separation of powers'?
It is the division of the central government's functions and powers between its three distinct branches.
What was the primary outcome of the Constitutional Convention?
The convention created a limited but dynamic central government that embodies federalism and a separation of powers.
Delegates (at the Constitutional Convention)
Individuals who represented their respective states at the convention that created the Constitution.
Three Branches
The distinct divisions of the central government, created by the Constitution to ensure a separation of powers.
What two key principles were foundational to the new government created at the Constitutional Convention?
The new government was founded on the principles of federalism and the separation of powers between its three branches.
How did the ratification of the Constitution represent a change in the structure of government?
It changed the government by creating a new, limited central government that featured a separation of powers among three branches.
Constitutional Convention
A meeting where delegates from the states participated to create a new central government structure.