Social Studies- Bill Of Rights
Questions and Answers
- 1.
In the United States the Bill of Rights is the name of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. They were introduced by James Madison, the Father of the Constitution, to the First United States Congress in 1789 as a series of constitutional amendments, and came into effect on December 15, 1791, when they had been ratified by three-fourths of the States. The Bill of Rights was influenced by the Virginia Declaration of Rights, the English Bill of Rights, the Age of Enlightenment, and the Magna Carta. The Bill of Rights limits the powers of the federal government of the United States, protecting the rights of all citizens, residents and visitors on United States territory. The Bill of Rights protects freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to keep and bear arms, the freedom of assembly, the freedom to petition, and freedom of the press. It also prohibits unreasonable search and seizure, cruel and unusual punishment, and compelled self-incrimination. The Bill of Rights also prohibits Congress from making any law respecting establishment of religion and prohibits the federal government from depriving any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law. In federal criminal cases, it requires indictment by grand jury for any capital or "infamous crime", guarantees a speedy public trial with an impartial jury composed of members of the state or judicial district in which the crime occurred, and prohibits double jeopardy. In addition, the Bill of Rights states that "the enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people," and reserves all powers not granted to the federal government to the citizenry or States. There were 2 additional amendments proposed, but only 10 were ratified by three-fourths of the states. The Bill of Rights plays a central role in American law and government, and remains a fundamental symbol of the freedoms and culture of the nation. You can find a copy of the document at the National Archives in Washington D.C. The Amendments are as follows: Amendment I Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Amendment II A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. Amendment III No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law. Amendment IV The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. Amendment V No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation. Amendment VI In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defence. Amendment VII In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law. Amendment VIII Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. Amendment IX The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. Amendment X The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. The Bill of Rights is made up of _____ Amendments.
- A.
5
- B.
10
- C.
12
- D.
8
Correct Answer
B. 10Explanation
The Bill of Rights is made up of 10 Amendments. These amendments were introduced by James Madison to the First United States Congress in 1789 and came into effect on December 15, 1791. The Bill of Rights limits the powers of the federal government and protects the rights of all citizens, residents, and visitors on United States territory. It includes protections such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, the right to bear arms, protection against unreasonable search and seizure, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights remains a fundamental symbol of the freedoms and culture of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of these best describes the First Amendment?
- A.
The rights of free people
- B.
Quartering Rights
- C.
God Given Rights
- D.
Rights of Criminals
Correct Answer
A. The rights of free peopleExplanation
The First Amendment refers to the rights of free people. It guarantees the freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. These rights are fundamental to a democratic society and allow individuals to express their opinions, practice their religion, and peacefully gather and protest. The First Amendment ensures that citizens have the freedom to voice their ideas and beliefs without fear of government censorship or persecution.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of these freedoms is not protected by the First Amendment?
- A.
Freedom of Speech
- B.
Freedom of Press
- C.
Freedom of Religion
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. None of the aboveExplanation
The First Amendment protects the freedoms of speech, press, and religion. Therefore, none of these freedoms are excluded or not protected by the First Amendment.Rate this question:
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- 4.
How long did it take the Bill of Rights to come into effect?
- A.
10 years
- B.
Approximately 2 years
- C.
30 days
- D.
1 year
Correct Answer
B. Approximately 2 yearsExplanation
The Bill of Rights came into effect approximately 2 years after its proposal. This suggests that there was a relatively short period of time between its proposal and its ratification. It is likely that the process of drafting and ratifying the amendments included debates and negotiations among the states, which contributed to the overall time it took for the Bill of Rights to come into effect.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following statements is not true about our religious freedoms in the United States?
- A.
We have the right to worship
- B.
We have the right to not worship
- C.
The President can establish a national church
- D.
The government cannot favor one religion over another
Correct Answer
C. The President can establish a national churchExplanation
The statement that "The President can establish a national church" is not true about religious freedoms in the United States. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution prohibits the government, including the President, from establishing a national church or favoring one religion over another. This principle of separation of church and state ensures that individuals have the freedom to practice any religion of their choice or no religion at all, without interference from the government.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment?
- A.
Amendment 8
- B.
Amendment 2
- C.
Amendment 5
- D.
Cruel and Unusual punishment is not prohibited
Correct Answer
A. Amendment 8Explanation
Amendment 8 prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. This amendment is a part of the United States Constitution and ensures that individuals are protected from excessive or inhumane punishments. It aims to prevent the government from imposing punishments that are considered cruel, unusual, or disproportionate to the crime committed. This amendment reflects the principle of justice and the belief that punishment should not be unnecessarily harsh or degrading.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of these documents did NOT influence the Bill of Rights?
- A.
Magna Carta
- B.
Declaration of Independence
- C.
The Bible
- D.
Both b and c
Correct Answer
D. Both b and cExplanation
The correct answer is "Both b and c". The Magna Carta and the Bible both influenced the Bill of Rights, but the Declaration of Independence did not have a direct influence on it. The Magna Carta, a document from 1215, established the principle of limited government and individual rights, which influenced the development of the Bill of Rights. The Bible, with its teachings on individual freedoms and moral values, also played a role in shaping the ideas behind the Bill of Rights. However, the Declaration of Independence primarily focused on declaring independence from Britain and did not directly influence the specific rights outlined in the Bill of Rights.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Who is the known as the Father of the Constitution?
- A.
Alexander Hamilton
- B.
James Madison
- C.
George Washington
- D.
Abraham Lincoln
Correct Answer
B. James MadisonExplanation
James Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution because he played a crucial role in drafting and promoting the United States Constitution. As one of the main contributors to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Madison's ideas and proposals heavily influenced the final document. He also played a key role in advocating for the ratification of the Constitution through his essays in the Federalist Papers. Madison's extensive knowledge of political theory and his commitment to creating a strong and balanced government earned him the title of the Father of the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The Bill of Rights limits the power of ______________ and protects the rights of _____________.
- A.
People, government
- B.
The President, Congress
- C.
Government, people
- D.
Congress, the Army
Correct Answer
C. Government, peopleExplanation
The Bill of Rights is a set of amendments to the United States Constitution that outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. It specifically limits the power of the government and ensures that the rights of the people are protected. This means that the government is restricted in its ability to infringe upon the rights and liberties of individuals, while individuals are granted certain protections and freedoms from government interference.Rate this question:
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- 10.
How many amendments were part of the Bill of Rights before it was ratified?
- A.
10
- B.
12
- C.
20
- D.
None
Correct Answer
B. 12Explanation
The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. Therefore, the statement that there were 12 amendments before it was ratified is incorrect. The correct answer is 10, as there were 10 amendments included in the Bill of Rights when it was ratified.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Where can you find a copy of the Bill of Rights?
- A.
The White House
- B.
Congress
- C.
National Archives
- D.
There are no copies remaining
Correct Answer
C. National ArchivesExplanation
The correct answer is National Archives. The Bill of Rights, which is the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, can be found at the National Archives. The National Archives is responsible for preserving and providing access to important historical documents, including the Bill of Rights. It is a government agency that serves as the official repository for such documents, making it the most likely place to find a copy of the Bill of Rights.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which Amendment is the reason the police must have a search warrant to enter your house today?
- A.
First
- B.
Fifth
- C.
Second
- D.
Fourth
Correct Answer
D. FourthExplanation
The Fourth Amendment is the reason the police must have a search warrant to enter your house today. This amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, stating that individuals have the right to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects. It requires that warrants be supported by probable cause and specifically describe the place to be searched and the items to be seized. Therefore, the Fourth Amendment ensures that law enforcement cannot enter a person's house without a warrant, protecting their privacy and preventing arbitrary searches.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which Amendment prohibits you from being tried for a crime twice?
- A.
Fifth
- B.
Fourth
- C.
Third
- D.
You can be tried twice for the same crime
Correct Answer
A. FifthExplanation
The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution prohibits individuals from being tried for the same crime twice, also known as double jeopardy. This protection ensures that individuals cannot be subjected to multiple prosecutions or punishments for the same offense, safeguarding their right to fair treatment within the criminal justice system.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which two rights are most similar?
- A.
Freedom of Religion and Freedom of Press
- B.
To bear arms and Freedom of Religion
- C.
Freedom of Press and Freedom of Speech
- D.
Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Assembly
Correct Answer
C. Freedom of Press and Freedom of SpeechExplanation
Freedom of Press and Freedom of Speech are the most similar rights because they both involve the freedom of expression. Freedom of Press refers to the right to publish and distribute information without censorship or government interference, while Freedom of Speech refers to the right to express one's opinions and ideas without fear of punishment. Both rights are fundamental to a democratic society and protect individuals' ability to communicate and share information freely.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A person who writes to the President to stop the war in Iraq is exercising his freedom of:
- A.
Press
- B.
Assembly
- C.
Speech
- D.
Petition
Correct Answer
D. PetitionExplanation
The person who writes to the President to stop the war in Iraq is exercising his freedom of petition. This means that he is expressing his concerns and requesting action from the government. Petition is a form of communication where individuals can address their grievances, propose changes, or seek redress from the government or other authorities. It allows individuals to have a voice and participate in the democratic process by influencing decision-making and policy changes.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following is not one of the reasons behind the Second Amendment?
- A.
So the states can be protected by a militia
- B.
So that militia volunteers can be armed
- C.
So citizens may have guns
- D.
So citizens can make a living selling and making guns
Correct Answer
D. So citizens can make a living selling and making gunsExplanation
The Second Amendment was not included in the Constitution to ensure that citizens can make a living selling and making guns. Instead, it was primarily intended to allow citizens to have guns for self-defense and to form militias to protect the states. The right to bear arms was seen as a fundamental right of the people, not as a means for individuals to profit from the sale and production of firearms.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following is not one of the rights of the accused protected by the Fifth Amendment?
- A.
Protection against self incrimination
- B.
Protection from double jeapordy
- C.
You are entitled to due process of law
- D.
The right to an attorney
Correct Answer
D. The right to an attorneyExplanation
The right to an attorney is not one of the rights of the accused protected by the Fifth Amendment. The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from self-incrimination, ensuring that they cannot be forced to testify against themselves. It also protects against double jeopardy, which means that a person cannot be tried for the same crime twice. Additionally, the Fifth Amendment guarantees the right to due process of law, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly in legal proceedings. However, the right to an attorney is protected by the Sixth Amendment, not the Fifth Amendment.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What larger document is the Bill Rights a part?
- A.
Declaration of Independence
- B.
United States Constitution
- C.
Magna Carta
- D.
None of the Above
Correct Answer
B. United States ConstitutionExplanation
The Bill of Rights is a part of the United States Constitution. The United States Constitution is a larger document that outlines the fundamental principles and framework of the government of the United States. It establishes the structure of the federal government, defines the powers and limitations of each branch, and protects the rights and freedoms of the citizens. The Bill of Rights, which consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, guarantees important individual liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial.Rate this question:
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- 19.
You cannot be held to a crime unless you are:
- A.
Indicted by a grand jury
- B.
Arrested
- C.
Accused
- D.
Tried in court
Correct Answer
A. Indicted by a grand juryExplanation
In the United States, the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution states that no person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous crime unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury. This means that before someone can be formally charged with a crime and held accountable, they must first be indicted by a grand jury. Being arrested or accused alone is not sufficient to be held responsible for a crime. Finally, being tried in court is the subsequent step after being indicted, where the evidence is presented and a verdict is reached.Rate this question:
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- 20.
According to the Third Amendment, a soldier has the right to occupy your house in times of war, without your consent.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Third Amendment of the United States Constitution actually protects citizens from having soldiers quartered in their homes during peacetime or in times of war, except in a manner prescribed by law. This means that a soldier does not have the right to occupy your house without your consent, making the statement false.Rate this question:
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