United States History: Regents Review
- 1.
Which city is paired with the geographical feature that directly contributed to its growth?
- A.
San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains San Francisco – Rocky Mountains
- B.
New Orleans – Mississippi River New Orleans – Mississippi River
- C.
Pittsburgh – Hudson River
- D.
Cleveland – Atlantic Coastal Plain
Correct Answer
B. New Orleans – Mississippi River New Orleans – Mississippi RiverExplanation
The Mississippi River was a major trade route that transported goods from North to South. The Mississippi flows into the Gulf of Mexico which led to the development of the trading port city of New Orleans.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The best source of information for identifying the location of the major mountain ranges in the United States is:
- A.
An encyclopedia
- B.
An almanac
- C.
An atlas
- D.
A dictionary
Correct Answer
C. An atlasExplanation
An atlas is the best source of information for identifying the location of major mountain ranges in the United States because it provides detailed maps and geographical information. Encyclopedias may have information on mountain ranges, but they may not provide specific locations. Almanacs are more focused on general facts and statistics rather than detailed maps. Dictionaries are primarily for defining words and do not provide geographical information. Therefore, an atlas is the most suitable source for this specific task.Rate this question:
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- 3.
According to the 1990 census, which two areas of the United States include the most densely populated parts of the nation?
- A.
The Great Plains and Texas
- B.
The Northeast and southern California
- C.
The South and the Rocky Mountain states
- D.
The Appalachian states and the Midwest
Correct Answer
B. The Northeast and southern CaliforniaExplanation
The correct answer is the Northeast and southern California. According to the 1990 census, these two areas were identified as the most densely populated parts of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Population data from the census of 2000 was used to determine the number of
- A.
States in the Union
- B.
Senators from each state
- C.
Electoral college votes from each state
- D.
Supreme Court justices
Correct Answer
C. Electoral college votes from each stateExplanation
The population data from the census of 2000 was used to determine the number of electoral college votes from each state. The electoral college is a system in which each state is assigned a certain number of electoral votes, based on its population. This system is used to elect the President of the United States. The population data helps to determine the representation and influence of each state in the electoral college.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which geographic factor had the greatest influence on early patterns of industrialization in the United States?
- A.
Scarcity of flat land on which to build factories
- B.
Shortages of timber and coal
- C.
Desire of workers to live in mild climates
- D.
Availability of waterpower to operate machines
Correct Answer
D. Availability of waterpower to operate machinesExplanation
The availability of waterpower to operate machines had the greatest influence on early patterns of industrialization in the United States. Waterpower was a crucial source of energy for early factories and mills, allowing for the mechanization of production processes. Areas with abundant water resources, such as New England and the Midwest, were able to harness this power and establish thriving industrial centers. Waterpower not only provided energy for machinery but also facilitated transportation through the use of canals and rivers, further supporting industrial growth.Rate this question:
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- 6.
In the Colonial Era, developments such as the New England town meetings and the establishment of the Virginia House of Burgesses represented
- A.
Colonial attempts to build a strong national government
- B.
Efforts by the British to strengthen their control over the colonies
- C.
Steps in the growth of representative democracy
- D.
Early social reform movements
Correct Answer
C. Steps in the growth of representative democracyExplanation
During the period known as “salutary neglect” the English inattention to the colonies allowed for the development of self-rule as expressed through the examples provided.Rate this question:
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- 7.
According to the Declaration of Independence, the people have the right to alter or abolish a government if that government
- A.
Is a limited monarchy
- B.
Violates natural rights
- C.
Becomes involved in entangling alliances
- D.
Favors one religion over another
Correct Answer
B. Violates natural rightsExplanation
The writings of John Locke and other authors of the Enlightenment expressed the idea of “The Consent of the Governed”. Rousseau also maintained that a “Social Contract” existed between government and the governed and when government failed to protect rights, a revolution was in order.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which fundamental political idea is expressed in the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
The government should guarantee every citizen economic security.
- B.
The central government and state governments should have equal power.
- C.
If the government denies its people certain basic rights, that government can be overthrown.
- D.
Rulers derive their right to govern from God and are therefore bound to govern in the nation’s best interest.
Correct Answer
C. If the government denies its people certain basic rights, that government can be overthrown.Explanation
The writings of John Locke and other authors of the Enlightenment expressed the idea of “The Consent of the Governed”. Rousseau also maintained that a “Social Contract” existed between government and the governed and when government failed to protect rights, a revolution was in order. Much of these Enlightnment idea was used as the basis for justification of the American Revolution in the Declaration of Independence.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In the 1780s, many Americans distrusted a strong central government. This distrust is best shown by the
- A.
Lack of debate over the ratification of the United States Constitution
- B.
Plan of government set up by the Articles of Confederation
- C.
Development of a Federal court system
- D.
Constitutional provision for a strong President
Correct Answer
B. Plan of government set up by the Articles of ConfederationExplanation
Colonists had fought a bitter war in order to achieve their independence from an oppressive British government. Therefore, the Articles of Confederation were drafted in order to ensure that a strong central government would not be a problem.Rate this question:
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- 10.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; . . ." This quotation is evidence that some of the basic ideas in the Declaration of Independence were
- A.
Limitations of the principles underlying most European governments of the 1700’s.
- B.
Adaptations of the laws of Spanish colonial governments in North America.
- C.
Adoptions of rules used by the Holy Roman Empire.
- D.
Reflections of the philosophies of the European Enlightenment.
Correct Answer
D. Reflections of the philosophies of the European Enlightenment.Explanation
Enlightenment thinker John Locke stated in his Two Treatises, that people had natural right including life, liberty, and property. This philosophy was adopted by Jefferson and incorporated into his writing of the Declaration of Independence.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The authors of the United States Constitution believed that the voice of the people should be heard frequently. Which part of the Government was instituted to respond most directly to the will of the people?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
Supreme Court
- D.
Presidency
Correct Answer
B. House of RepresentativesExplanation
Prior to the passage of the 17th Amendment in 1913, which provided for direct election of U.S. Senators, members of the House of Representatives were the only Federal officials that were voted into office by a popular vote of the people. Before 1913, U.S. Senators were elected by state legislatures. The President has been elected to office through the Electoral College since 1789.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which idea is illustrated by the Supreme Court cases Schenck v. United States and Korematsu v . United States?
- A.
The free speech rights of Communists have often been violated.
- B.
During wartime, limitations on civil rights have been upheld by judicial action.
- C.
The rights of protestors have been preserved even in times of national stress.
- D.
Economic interests of foreign nations are frequently upheld in United States courts.
Correct Answer
B. During wartime, limitations on civil rights have been upheld by judicial action.Explanation
The Supreme Court ruled that Schenck’s protests against US involvement in WWI were a “clear and present danger” to the United States. The court also ruled during WWII, that the internment of Japanese Americans such as Fred Korematsu was legal because the posed a potential threat to the United States. This illustrates the idea that freedoms of liberty and speech can and have been restricted during the extreme cases, such as wartime.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Dred Scott decision on the issue of slavery upheld the Southern viewpoint that
- A.
The power of the Supreme Court does not extend to cases of race
- B.
Congress could not pass a law depriving territorial residents of their property
- C.
A national vote should be held to decide the legality of slavery
- D.
The economic well-being of the western states depended on slave labor
Correct Answer
B. Congress could not pass a law depriving territorial residents of their propertyExplanation
The Supreme Court ruled in Dred Scott v. Sanford (1857) that blacks were not citizens and that slaves were property and could be taken anywhere, regardless of a state’s status as free or slave holding. This also served to declare the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional due to its establishment of free/slave state borders. This decision was ultimately nullified by the passage of the 13th amendment feeing the slaves and the 14th amendment establishing citizenship and equal protection under the law.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The decisions of the United States Supreme Court in Miranda v. Arizona, Gideon v. Wainwright, and Escobedo v. Illinois all advanced the
- A.
Voting rights of minorities
- B.
Guarantees of free speech and press
- C.
Principle of separation of church and state
- D.
Rights of accused persons
Correct Answer
D. Rights of accused personsExplanation
In numerous decisions the Warren Court was active in expanding the rights of the accused. The most famous of these was the 1966 Miranda v. Arizona decision that established a suspect’s right to be informed of his or her rights. Many cases such as Mapp v. Ohio (right against illegal search and seizure) Gideon v. Wainwright (right to counsel) and others further helped establish Earl Warren’s legacy as an activist Chief Justice.Rate this question:
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- 15.
An immediate result of the Supreme Court decision in Schechter Poultry Corporation v. United States (1935) and United States v. Butler (1936) was that
- A.
Some aspects of the New Deal were declared unconstitutional
- B.
State governments took over relief agencies
- C.
Congress was forced to abandon efforts to improve the economy
- D.
The constitutional authority of the President was greatly expanded
Correct Answer
A. Some aspects of the New Deal were declared unconstitutionalExplanation
When the Supreme Court struck down several provisions of FDR’s New Deal in the 1935 Schecter Poultry v. US case and the 1936 US v. Butler decision, they were exercising a check upon the Legislature and the Executive branches by declaring laws of the Congress and actions of the President unconstitutional. FDR's reaction to these events was an attempt to "pack the court" with his supports. He first attempted to pass a retirement age for justices (which would have forced many to step-down) and later attempted to increase the number of justices to 12. Both tactics failed and the resulting backlash against FDR's attempt to usurp the Court resulted in a loss of support for The New Deal programs in Congress.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Under Chief Justice Earl Warren, the Supreme Court was considered "activist" because of its
- A.
Reluctance to overturn state laws
- B.
Insistence on restricting freedom of speech to spoken words
- C.
Expansion of individual rights in criminal cases
- D.
Refusal to reconsider the issues of the Plessy v. Ferguson case
Correct Answer
C. Expansion of individual rights in criminal casesExplanation
In numerous decisions the Warren Court was active in expanding the rights of the accused. The most famous of these was the 1966 Miranda v. Arizona decision that established a suspect’s right to be informed of his or her rights. Many cases such as Mapp v. Ohio (right against illegal search and seizure) Gideon v. Wainwright (right to counsel) and others further helped establish Earl Warren’s legacy as an activist Chief Justice.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The speakers below are discussing foreign policies that the United States has followed at various times. Base your answers on their statements and on your knowledge of social studies. Speaker A: Steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. Speaker B: The United States will give economic aid to needy countries anywhere in the world, but will not provide military aid. Speaker C: The United States must prevent the growth of communism. Speaker D: The United States can take over other countries to help them become more like us. Which speaker states a policy most similar to the foreign policy advice given by President George Washington in his Farewell Address?
- A.
Speaker A
- B.
Speaker B
- C.
Speaker C
- D.
Speaker D
Correct Answer
A. Speaker AExplanation
In his farewell address George Washington warned the fledgling America to stay clear of “entangling alliances” with the Europeans, but to continue economic ties with the continent. He also sent warnings about the dangers of political parties and the factions they could create, dividing the American people.Rate this question:
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- 18.
When John Marshall was Chief Justice, United States Supreme Court decisions tended to strengthen the power of
- A.
The National Government
- B.
State and local governments
- C.
Labor unions
- D.
Trusts and monopolies
Correct Answer
A. The National GovernmentExplanation
John Marshall had been nominated by John Adams and was a strong Federalist judge. As Chief Justice, Marshall moved the Supreme Court to decisions that favored and strengthened the Federal Government and its superiority over the states. Decisions such as McCulloch v. Maryland (1819), Gibbons v. Ogden (1824) and others are testimony to this expansion and protection of the federal government.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Alexander Hamilton’s argument that the government has the power to create a National Bank is based on which part of the Constitution?
- A.
The Preamble
- B.
The elastic clause
- C.
Guarantees to the States
- D.
The Bill of Rights
Correct Answer
B. The elastic clauseExplanation
The elastic clause or the necessary and proper clause in the Constitution, allows Congress to expand its powers beyond the actual text of the Constitution in order to carry out its duties of running the nation. In the case of the National Bank, Hamilton argued that creating the bank fell within the realm of a necessary and proper action, needed to effectively manage the US economy. The bank would remain a divisive issue in early American history as opinions differed over the legality of its creation. It was the center of the Supreme Court case McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) and the “Bank War” under President Andrew Jackson.Rate this question:
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- 20.
At times, the United States Government has passed protective tariffs to
- A.
Encourage foreign trade
- B.
Help the nation’s manufacturers
- C.
Reduce the cost of consumer goods
- D.
Improve the quality of goods
Correct Answer
B. Help the nation’s manufacturersExplanation
Tariffs are taxes placed upon goods being imported into a nation. The imported goods then have a higher total price (after the tax) then similar goods manufactured within the nation itself. This protects the domestic manufactures from having to compete with lower priced, foreign made products. This concept has been applied many time in US history (it was part of Hamilton’s economic plan; the Tariff of 1828 was highly unpopular; tariffs were also applied in the 1920’s and are seen as a contributing factor in the great depression.)Rate this question:
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- 21.
“. . . the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers. . . .” — President James Monroe, 1823 Which President later built on the idea expressed in this quotation?
- A.
Abraham Lincoln
- B.
Theodore Roosevelt
- C.
Harry Truman
- D.
Richard Nixon
Correct Answer
B. Theodore RooseveltExplanation
The correct answer is Theodore Roosevelt. Theodore Roosevelt built on the idea expressed in the quotation by implementing the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. This corollary stated that the United States had the right to intervene in the affairs of Latin American countries to maintain stability and protect American interests. This expanded the scope of the Monroe Doctrine and solidified the United States' role as a dominant power in the Western Hemisphere.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The legal basis for the United States purchase of the Louisiana Territory was the
- A.
Power granted to the President to make treaties
- B.
President’s power as Commander in Chief
- C.
Authority of Congress to declare war
- D.
Senate’s duty to approve the appointment of ambassadors
Correct Answer
A. Power granted to the President to make treatiesExplanation
Thomas Jefferson used the presidential power of treaty making to make the Louisiana Purchase from France. This action was considered a loose interpretation of the Constitution, which does not provide for the presidential acquisition of territory. While Jefferson was ideologically for a strict interpretation of the Constitution, the excellent opportunity offered by the Louisiana Purchase was too good to pass up.Rate this question:
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- 23.
"Compromise Enables Maine and Missouri To Enter Union" (1820) "California Admitted to Union as Free State" (1850) "Kansas-Nebraska Act Sets Up Popular Sovereignty" (1854) Which issue is reflected in these headlines?
- A.
Enactment of protective tariffs
- B.
Extension of slavery
- C.
Voting rights for minorities
- D.
Universal public education
Correct Answer
B. Extension of slaveryExplanation
All three examples listed were compromises or agreements reached in order to preserve the balance of power in national government between free and slave states as the United States expanded westward in the 1800’s, fulfilling Manifest Destiny.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Louisiana Purchase had great geographic significance for the United States because it
- A.
Reduced British control of North America
- B.
Focused the United States on westward expansion
- C.
Extended United States control over Mexico
- D.
Decreased tensions with Native American Indians
Correct Answer
B. Focused the United States on westward expansionExplanation
The Louisiana Purchase had great geographic significance for the United States because it focused the United States on westward expansion. This is because the purchase of the vast territory doubled the size of the country, opening up new opportunities for settlement and economic development in the western frontier. It allowed the United States to gain control over key trade routes and access to valuable resources, ultimately shaping the country's expansionist ambitions and manifest destiny ideology.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which argument did President Abraham Lincoln use against the secession of the Southern States?
- A.
Slavery was not profitable
- B.
The government was a union of people and not of states.
- C.
The Southern States did not permit their people to vote on secession.
- D.
As the Commander in Chief, he had the duty to defend the United States against foreign invasion.
Correct Answer
B. The government was a union of people and not of states.Explanation
Prior to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, Lincoln tried many persuasive arguments to preserve the Union. He contended that; “in view of the Constitution and the law, the union is unbroken”. Despite his efforts seven states had seceded by his inauguration in March 1861, and after the firing on Fort Sumter the Civil War was in progress.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The abolitionist movement, the women’s suffrage movement, and the 1960’s civil rights movement are all examples of reform efforts that
- A.
Succeeded without causing major controversy
- B.
Developed significant popular support
- C.
Achieved their goals without government action
- D.
Failed to affect the nation as a whole
Correct Answer
B. Developed significant popular supportExplanation
Widespread, popular reform movements are also referred to as “grassroots” movements. The protest movements identified above were all successful in achieving their ultimate aims, however as often is the case in American reform movements, the struggle was long and arduous.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which statement best explains President Abraham Lincoln’s justification for the Civil War?
- A.
As an abolitionist, President Lincoln wanted to end slavery in the United States.
- B.
President Lincoln wanted to keep the South economically dependent on the industrial North.
- C.
President Lincoln’s oath of office required him to defend and preserve the Union.
- D.
To keep the support of Great Britain and France, President Lincoln had to try to end slavery immediately.
Correct Answer
C. President Lincoln’s oath of office required him to defend and preserve the Union.Explanation
As US President, Lincoln was sworn to “preserve and defend” the union. It was clear that allowing the South to succeed from the Union would destroy the United States Lincoln was leading. He attempted to retain the Southern states within the US, eventually resorting to war in order to achieve the desired preservation.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A major result of the Civil War was that the
- A.
Economic system of the South came to dominate the United States economy
- B.
Federal Government’s power over the States was strengthened
- C.
Members of Congress from Southern States gained control of the legislative branch
- D.
Nation’s industrial development came to a standstill
Correct Answer
B. Federal Government’s power over the States was strengthenedExplanation
One of the main causes of the Civil War was a tension between the southern state governments and the federal government over states’ rights and powers. Following the defeat of the Confederacy, the federal government expanded its power and control over that states in order to better avoid a resumption of the tensions that had contributed to the war.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which statement best summarizes the beliefs of Booker T. Washington?
- A.
The best solution for African Americans was to return to Africa.
- B.
Social equality for African Americans would be easier to achieve than legal rights.
- C.
The way to dissolve the barriers of segregation and bring about an end to Jim Crow laws was by active, violent resistance.
- D.
The most immediate means for African Americans to achieve equality was to expand their opportunities for vocational education.
Correct Answer
D. The most immediate means for African Americans to achieve equality was to expand their opportunities for vocational education.Explanation
Booker T. Washington and another great African-American leader, W.E.B. Du Bois differed in their approaches to education. Washington favored vocational education that would teach a skilled trade, such as farming or carpentry. While Du Bois favored broader more formal education, such as literature and sciences.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which statement about the philosophies of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois is most accurate?
- A.
They differed as to the best way that African Americans could effectively achieve equality.
- B.
Both demanded programs that would provide for immediate social equality.
- C.
Both believed that vocational training would provide the most important kind of education for African Americans.
- D.
Neither wanted the Federal Government to play a major role in protecting the civil rights of African Americans.
Correct Answer
A. They differed as to the best way that African Americans could effectively achieve equality.Explanation
Booker T. Washington and another great African-American leader, W.E.B. Du Bois differed in their approaches to education. Washington favored vocational education that would teach a skilled trade, such as farming or carpentry. While Du Bois favored broader more formal education, such as literature and sciences.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Base your answer to the question below on the passage below and on your knowledge of social studies. "[The registrar] brought a big old book out there, and he gave me the sixteenth section of the constitution of Mississippi, . . . I could copy it like it was in the book, but after I got through copying it, he told me to give a reasonable interpretation and tell the meaning of the section I had copied. Well, I flunked out." Source: A History of the United States since 1861 The main intent of the literacy test described in the passage was to
- A.
Encourage reform of the political system
- B.
Encourage Mississippi residents to learn about their state’s legal system
- C.
Prevent African Americans from exercising a basic right
- D.
Enforce the provisions of the United States Constitution
Correct Answer
C. Prevent African Americans from exercising a basic rightExplanation
Literacy tests and poll taxes were common tactics used in southern states to suppress voting by African-Americans. Grandfather clauses were enacted as a way of allowing poor, uneducated, white southerners to vote despite the tests and taxes, based on their grandfathers voting history.Rate this question:
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- 32.
In the United States, the Red Scare of 1919 and the McCarthy Era of the early 1950’s were periods of
- A.
Severe economic depression
- B.
Widespread support for groups promoting international anarchy
- C.
Great growth in art, literature, and music
- D.
Persecution of people suspected of holding anti-American political views
Correct Answer
D. Persecution of people suspected of holding anti-American political viewsExplanation
During the Red Scare of 1919 and the McCarthy Era of the early 1950s, there was a widespread persecution of people suspected of holding anti-American political views. These periods were characterized by intense fear and suspicion of communism and communist sympathizers in the United States. The government and various organizations conducted investigations, blacklisted individuals, and implemented loyalty tests to root out perceived threats to national security. Many innocent people were targeted, their careers ruined, and their lives disrupted based on mere suspicion or association with leftist ideologies. This period of persecution had a significant impact on American society and politics, leaving a lasting legacy of fear and distrust.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which conclusion can be drawn from the occurrence of the Red Scare and the decision of the Supreme Court in Schenck v. United States?
- A.
Immigrants to the United States are consistently denied equal protection under the law.
- B.
A person’s best protection from persecution rests with the Supreme Court.
- C.
Civil rights are sometimes compromised by the public’s fear of radical political groups
- D.
Violent protests in the United States are usually met with a violent response from the government.
Correct Answer
C. Civil rights are sometimes compromised by the public’s fear of radical political groupsExplanation
The Schenk case clearly illustrated the willingness to suspend or restrict freedoms in the face of radical or disruptive speech and press. The Palmer Raids of the twenties and the surrounding ‘red scare’ (fear of Communism) also illustrated the acceptance of illegal searches, suspension of due process and suppression of rights in the battle against unpopular political ideals.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which factors were the major causes of the Red Scare and the Palmer Raids, which followed World War I?
- A.
Success of the Communist Party in congressional and Presidential elections
- B.
Race riots in Los Angeles and the revival of the Ku Klux Klan
- C.
Failure of the United States to join the League of Nations and the unpaid German war debts
- D.
The Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 in Russia and workers’ strikes in the United States
Correct Answer
D. The Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 in Russia and workers’ strikes in the United StatesExplanation
The Palmer Raids of the twenties and the surrounding ‘red scare’ (fear of Communism) also illustrated the acceptance of illegal searches, suspension of due process and suppression of rights in the battle against unpopular political ideals. In this case the ideals were those of Communism. The fear of a communist revolution in the United States was based upon the events of the Russian Revolution, in which a small-dedicated band of rebels had unified to topple the Czar. Also, the fact that a stated goal of Communism was a worldwide revolution gave rise to fears that rebellion may be at work here in the US.Rate this question:
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- 35.
After World War I, why did American farmers fail to share in the general economic growth of the United States?
- A.
Many immigrants were settling in the west and competing with the farmers.
- B.
The Federal Government reduced the number of acres on which farmers could grow subsidized crops.
- C.
Farmers could not produce enough to keep up with demand.
- D.
Overproduction and competition caused falling prices.
Correct Answer
D. Overproduction and competition caused falling prices.Explanation
During World War I the US greatly increased its production capacity. After the war, those factories and industry were turned to making consumer good for the spend happy population of the 1920’s. Eventually consumers could not afford any more new goods or were unable to pay of the items they had bought on credit. The resulting overproduction caused a steep drop in prices, caused business to close, increased unemployment and was direct cause of the oncoming great depression.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The Harlem Renaissance of the 1920’s was a period when African Americans
- A.
Left the United States in large numbers to settle in Nigeria
- B.
Created noteworthy works of art and literature
- C.
Migrated to the West in search of land and jobs
- D.
Used civil disobedience to fight segregation in the Armed Forces
Correct Answer
B. Created noteworthy works of art and literatureExplanation
During the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s, African Americans in the United States produced significant and influential works of art and literature. This cultural movement, centered in Harlem, New York, showcased the talents of African American writers, poets, musicians, and artists. Through their creative expressions, they explored themes of identity, racial pride, and social issues, challenging stereotypes and promoting cultural awareness. The Harlem Renaissance played a crucial role in shaping African American culture and history, making it an accurate explanation for the given answer.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which geographic feature is primarily responsible for the lowest population the area shown on the map?
- A.
Columbia River
- B.
Pacific Ocean
- C.
Rocky Mountains
- D.
Mississippi River Valley
Correct Answer
C. Rocky MountainsExplanation
The Rocky Mountains are primarily responsible for the lowest population in the area shown on the map. This is because the Rocky Mountains are a rugged and mountainous terrain, making it difficult for human settlement and development. The harsh climate, high elevation, and limited resources in this region make it less attractive for people to live in compared to other areas such as river valleys or coastal regions. Therefore, the presence of the Rocky Mountains restricts population growth and leads to a lower population in the area.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Acquiring New Orleans as part of the Louisiana Purchase was considered important to the development of the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys because the city
- A.
Provided protection from attacks by the Spanish
- B.
Provided migrant workers for river valley farms
- C.
Served as a port for American agricultural goods
- D.
Served as the cultural center for the nation
Correct Answer
C. Served as a port for American agricultural goodsExplanation
Acquiring New Orleans as part of the Louisiana Purchase was considered important to the development of the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys because the city served as a port for American agricultural goods. New Orleans was strategically located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, making it a crucial hub for trade and transportation. The city's port facilitated the export of agricultural products from the surrounding river valleys, allowing farmers to access national and international markets more easily. This boosted economic growth and development in the region, making New Orleans a vital asset for the expansion of the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys.Rate this question:
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- 39.
A major cause of the growth of state and Federal highway systems after World War II was the
- A.
Increased use of mass transit systems
- B.
Growing prosperity of inner-city areas
- C.
Rapid development of suburbs
- D.
Return of city dwellers to farm areas
Correct Answer
C. Rapid development of suburbsExplanation
As GI’s came home from World War II, married and started families, the crowded US cities resulted in a suburban growth in areas surrounding these cities. Jobs remained in the cities and as such, workers drove from the suburbs to the cities for employment. This trend required the growth of infrastructure to facilitate these new lifestyles. The federal highway system of the 1950’s was a result.Rate this question:
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- 40.
During World War II, women and minorities made economic gains mainly because
- A.
A shortage of traditional labor created new opportunities in the workplace
- B.
More educational opportunities increased the number of skilled workers in these groups
- C.
Labor unions successfully demanded equal opportunities for these groups
- D.
New civil rights legislation forced businesses to change their hiring practices
Correct Answer
A. A shortage of traditional labor created new opportunities in the workplaceExplanation
During World War II, there was a shortage of traditional labor as many men were drafted into the military. This created new opportunities in the workplace for women and minorities who were previously excluded or limited in their employment options. With the shortage of workers, employers had to hire from a broader pool of candidates, leading to economic gains for women and minorities. This allowed them to enter industries and occupations that were previously dominated by men, thus increasing their participation in the workforce and contributing to their economic advancement.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A major cause of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II was
- A.
National segregation policies
- B.
Immigration quotas
- C.
Racial prejudice
- D.
Economic depression
Correct Answer
C. Racial prejudiceExplanation
During World War II, the internment of Japanese Americans was primarily driven by racial prejudice. The fear and suspicion towards Japanese Americans were fueled by stereotypes and xenophobia, leading to the belief that they posed a threat to national security. This prejudice disregarded the fact that the majority of Japanese Americans were loyal citizens. While economic depression, immigration quotas, and national segregation policies may have played a role in exacerbating tension, it was ultimately racial prejudice that was the major cause of their internment.Rate this question:
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- 42.
“ . . . his legislative leadership was remarkable. No President since Lincoln had done more for civil rights. Yet much of this was forgotten as American society became increasingly divided over United States participation in a bloody, undeclared war.” Which 20th-century President does this statement most accurately describe?
- A.
Woodrow Wilson
- B.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
- C.
Lyndon Johnson
- D.
Ronald Reagan
Correct Answer
C. Lyndon JohnsonExplanation
The presidency of Lyndon Johnson was marked by great domestic strides, juxtaposed with unpopular foreign policy. At home Johnson helped back the 1964 Civil Rights Act which was the most significant civil rights legislation of the ear, it protected voting rights, desegregated all public facilities and created the Equal Opportunity Commission to protect job opportunities. Johnson’s “war on poverty” also sought to provide assistance to the poorest in the nation and created Medicaid benefits to assist with medial care. Along with these domestic strides, was the backdrop of the Vietnam conflict, an unpopular war in which the US seemed aimlessly mired. These two divergent agendas both boost and tarnish the reputation of Johnson’s administration in the eyes of history.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The Great Society of Lyndon Johnson is most similar to which other Presidential program?
- A.
Warren Harding’s Return to Normalcy
- B.
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal
- C.
Ronald Reagan’s New Federalism
- D.
George Bush’s Thousand Points of Light
Correct Answer
B. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New DealExplanation
The Great Society of Lyndon Johnson is most similar to Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. Both programs aimed to address social and economic issues in the United States. The Great Society focused on poverty reduction, civil rights, and education, while the New Deal aimed to alleviate the effects of the Great Depression through various relief and recovery measures. Both programs were significant in expanding the role of the federal government and implementing policies to improve the lives of Americans.Rate this question:
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- 44.
The Great Society programs of the 1960’s used the power of the Federal Government to bring about
- A.
An all-volunteer military
- B.
Antipoverty reforms
- C.
Deregulation of business
- D.
Reduced defense spending
Correct Answer
B. Antipoverty reformsExplanation
Johnson helped back the 1964 Civil Rights Act which was the most significant civil rights legislation of the ear, it protected voting rights, desegregated all public facilities and created the Equal Opportunity Commission to protect job opportunities. Johnson’s “war on poverty” also sought to provide assistance to the poorest in the nation and created Medicaid benefits to assist with medial care.Rate this question:
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- 45.
The Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan represented attempts by the United States to deal with the
- A.
National debt
- B.
Spread of communism
- C.
President’s political opposition
- D.
Arms race
Correct Answer
B. Spread of communismExplanation
The Truman Doctrine was request to the US Congress for assistance for Greece and Turkey (weapons, food, aid) in their on-going struggle against Communism within their nations. The Marshall plan was billions of dollars in US aid for the war revenged nations of Europe, following the Second World War. The intention of the Marshall plan was to provide an incentive for the nations of Europe to reject a move to communism and allow a stable transition to democratic governments.Rate this question:
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- 46.
The speakers below are discussing foreign policies that the United States has followed at various times. Base your answers on their statements and on your knowledge of social studies. Speaker A: Steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. Speaker B: The United States will give economic aid to needy countries anywhere in the world, but will not provide military aid. Speaker C: The United States must prevent the growth of communism. Speaker D: The United States can take over other countries to help them become more like us. The Korean conflict and the Vietnam conflict were attempts to carry out the foreign policy described by Speaker
- A.
Speaker A
- B.
Speaker B
- C.
Speaker C
- D.
Speaker D
Correct Answer
C. Speaker CExplanation
Speaker C is describing the main idea behind the US policy of containment. The concept of containment was one in which the US government exercised a foreign policy that aimed to halt the spread of communism. Actions such as the Marshall Plan’s aid to European economies after WWII, the Truman Doctrine’s aid to Greece and Turkey as well as the Korean and Vietnam wars referenced above, all serve as examples of this policy in action.Rate this question:
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- 47.
“An attack on one shall be considered an attack on all.” This statement summarizes the foreign policy known a
- A.
Colonialism
- B.
Nonalignment
- C.
Appeasement
- D.
Collective security
Correct Answer
D. Collective securityExplanation
The concept of collective security is best summarized by the statement provided; “An attack on one shall be considered an attack on all.”. Collective security became a goal following WWII. Following the war, the United States and the nations of Western Europe formed the collective security arrangement NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) as a method of stopping the spread of communism. The collective security arrangement means that even the smallest nation in NATO not fear invasion by communist forces, as to do so would mean a war with all NATO members. The US is a member of several other collective security arrangements such as SEATO (South East Asian Treaty Organization).Rate this question:
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- 48.
Shortly after World War II, the cold war developed mainly as a result of the
- A.
United States refusal to send economic aid to European nations
- B.
Soviet domination of Eastern Europe
- C.
Competition between the superpowers to explore outer space
- D.
Continuation of the pre-World War II balance of power
Correct Answer
B. Soviet domination of Eastern EuropeExplanation
At the end of World War II the Soviet Union did not withdraw from the Eastern European nations that it had liberated from German control. Instead, the USSR set up communist governments in these nations, who were directly under the domination and control of Moscow. The US and Western European governments feared the USSR would attempt to expand the ‘Iron Curtain’ of communism further. The resulting fear, mistrust and confrontation, gave birth to the nearly 50 year long Cold War.Rate this question:
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- 49.
The United States Federal Reserve System was established to
- A.
Provide loans to industrialists
- B.
End the Great Depression
- C.
Provide for a balanced budget
- D.
Regulate the money supply
Correct Answer
D. Regulate the money supplyExplanation
The US Federal Reserve is responsible for setting the interest rates charged on loans through US banks. Lower interest rates result in “cheaper money” and a “looser” supply of money. Higher interest rates result in less loans being given and translate into a “tighter” money supply. The Federal Reserve will lower or raise rates in a continual effort to avoid inflation.Rate this question:
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- 50.
President Theodore Roosevelt’s Square Deal and President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society were similar in that both
- A.
Returned control of social welfare programs to the states
- B.
Relied on individual initiative to improve the economy
- C.
Were supported by Congress over the objections of the majority of state governments
- D.
Increased the role of the Federal Government in dealing with social and economic problems
Correct Answer
D. Increased the role of the Federal Government in dealing with social and economic problemsExplanation
Under Teddy Roosevelt the government became increasingly involved in regulating monopolies and public health. Passage of laws such as the Meat Inspection Act (1906) and the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906) were targeted at improving public health. Under Lyndon Johnson the programs of Medicare and Medicaid were established. These were also targeted at public health, providing basic medical coverage for the elderly, the poor and disabled.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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