Key Principles and Powers of the U.S. Government

AP® U.S. Government - Campaigns and Elections

Suffrage is the legal right to vote in political elections. In the U.S., suffrage has expanded over time to include nearly all citizens aged 18 and older.

US Government AP - The Media

Mass media includes all communication channels—like TV, newspapers, radio, the Internet—used to reach and inform large groups of people. Both bureaucracy and mass media are called “The Fourth Branch of Government” because bureaucracy creates rules that affect laws, and media shapes public awareness of policy issues.

US Government AP - Campaigns and Elections

When the Constitution was ratified, voting rights were limited mostly to white male property owners. Over time, especially in the early 1800s, most states removed property requirements, expanding suffrage to more white men.

US Government AP - Political Parties

There were no political parties when the Constitution was enacted in 1789. However, by the end of George Washington’s presidency, parties had formed around key leaders like Hamilton (Federalist) and Jefferson (Democratic-Republican).

US Government AP - Political Beliefs and Behaviors

Political culture is the shared set of beliefs, values, and norms about how political and economic life should function. In the U.S., this includes respect for democratic processes like peaceful transfers of power.

US Government AP - Foreign Policy

Branch Responsible for Foreign Policy: The executive branch holds the most responsibility for foreign policy, primarily through the president and the secretary of state.