RHS AP Government Unit 1 Review Quiz
The "RHS AP Government Unit 1 Review Quiz" delves into the foundational principles of the American government system, providing a comprehensive overview of key concepts and historical context. Unit 1 typically covers topics like the Constitution, federalism, civil liberties, and the structure of government. Participants will navigate a series of thought-provoking questions that test their knowledge and understanding of these fundamental principles. The quiz offers an excellent opportunity to reinforce classroom learning, identify areas of strength, and pinpoint topics that may require further study.
Unit 1 of AP Government sets the stage for a deeper exploration of American Read moregovernment and politics. Participants will encounter questions related to the Constitution's origins, the division of powers between the federal and state governments, and the protection of individual rights. Whether you're an AP Government student preparing for the exam or someone interested in gaining a better grasp of American government, this quiz provides a valuable learning experience. Dive into the intricacies of government structures, the role of citizens, and the foundations of democracy in the United States.
- 1.
Ratification of the Constitution was done by
- A.
Majority vote of the delegates at the constitutional convention
- B.
The state legislatures approving the document
- C.
The voters in each state casting open ballots
- D.
Special conventions in each state
Correct Answer
D. Special conventions in each stateExplanation
The ratification of the Constitution was done through special conventions in each state. This means that each state held its own convention to debate and decide whether to approve the Constitution. This process allowed for a more thorough examination and discussion of the document, ensuring that the decision was made by representatives directly chosen by the people.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Only the national government is allowed to
- A.
Regulate commerce with foreign nations
- B.
Take private property for public purposes
- C.
Levy taxes
- D.
Make and enforce laws
Correct Answer
A. Regulate commerce with foreign nationsExplanation
The correct answer is "regulate commerce with foreign nations" because according to the Constitution of the United States, the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations is explicitly given to the national government. This means that the federal government has the authority to establish and enforce rules and regulations regarding trade and business transactions with other countries. This power ensures that there is a consistent and uniform approach to international trade, allowing the United States to protect its economic interests and maintain diplomatic relationships with foreign nations.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When the Articles of Confederation were adopted, the nation's major concern was dominated by
- A.
Economic issues
- B.
Equality for women
- C.
Religious freedom
- D.
Political dominance by the central government
Correct Answer
A. Economic issuesExplanation
The correct answer is economic issues. When the Articles of Confederation were adopted, the nation's major concern was dominated by economic issues. This is because the newly formed United States was facing economic challenges such as high debt from the Revolutionary War, lack of a unified currency, and difficulties in trade and commerce between the states. The Articles of Confederation, which gave more power to the individual states and limited the authority of the central government, were intended to address these economic concerns and promote economic stability and growth.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The power to directly regulate drinking ages, marriage and divorce, and the like has been granted...
- A.
To the president
- B.
To the national government
- C.
To both the state and national governments
- D.
To state governments
Correct Answer
D. To state governmentsExplanation
The correct answer is to state governments. This is because the power to regulate drinking ages, marriage and divorce, and similar matters has been given to the individual states. The Constitution grants certain powers to the national government, but these specific issues are left to the discretion of the states. Therefore, each state has the authority to set its own regulations and laws regarding drinking ages, marriage, divorce, and related matters.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In _______ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are like a marble cake, with mingles responsibilities and blurred distinctions between layers of government.
- A.
Mixed
- B.
Fiscal
- C.
Tripartite
- D.
Cooperative
Correct Answer
D. CooperativeExplanation
Cooperative federalism refers to a system in which the powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are intertwined, resembling a marble cake. In this model, there is a collaboration and sharing of responsibilities between the federal and state governments, with blurred distinctions between layers of government. This allows for a cooperative approach to governance, where both levels work together to address issues and make decisions.Rate this question:
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- 6.
All of the following are examples of how federalism decentralizes our policies EXCEPT
- A.
Funding of educations
- B.
Regulation of abortion
- C.
Death penalty
- D.
Federal income tax
Correct Answer
D. Federal income taxExplanation
Federalism decentralizes our policies by allowing different levels of government to have authority over different areas. Funding of education, regulation of abortion, and the death penalty are all examples of policies that can vary from state to state due to federalism. However, federal income tax is not an example of decentralization because it is uniformly regulated and collected by the federal government, rather than being left up to individual states.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The supremacy clause of the constitution states that all of the following are the supreme law of the land, EXCEPT
- A.
Laws of the national government (when consistent with the constitution)
- B.
The United States Constitution
- C.
State constitutions
- D.
Treates of the national government (when consistent with the constitution)
Correct Answer
C. State constitutionsExplanation
The supremacy clause of the constitution establishes that the Constitution, laws of the national government (when consistent with the constitution), and treaties of the national government (when consistent with the constitution) are the supreme law of the land. State constitutions, however, are not included in this list. This means that if there is a conflict between a state constitution and the federal constitution or federal laws, the federal constitution and laws will prevail.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following federal policies exemplifies the implied powers of congress?
- A.
Income tax
- B.
The provision of an army and a navy
- C.
Environmental protection law
- D.
The regulation of interstate commerce
Correct Answer
C. Environmental protection lawExplanation
The implied powers of Congress refer to powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are necessary and proper to carry out the powers that are specifically listed. The environmental protection law falls under the implied powers as it is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, but it is necessary for Congress to regulate and protect the environment in order to fulfill its responsibilities.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The main instrument the national government use to influence the state governments is
- A.
Grants-in-aid
- B.
Judicial review
- C.
The Tenth Amendment
- D.
Mandates
Correct Answer
A. Grants-in-aidExplanation
The national government uses grants-in-aid as the main instrument to influence the state governments. Grants-in-aid are financial assistance provided by the national government to the states for specific purposes or projects. This allows the national government to exert control and influence over state policies and programs by attaching conditions or requirements to the grants. By providing funding, the national government can incentivize states to adopt certain policies or implement programs that align with its priorities.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Opposition to ratification of the constitution was based on the belief that it would
- A.
All of these
- B.
Provide for elite control, endanger liberty, and weaken the states
- C.
Produce more democratic elements than desirable for a strong central government
- D.
Promote pluralism, which would threaten liberty
Correct Answer
B. Provide for elite control, endanger liberty, and weaken the statesExplanation
The opposition to the ratification of the constitution believed that it would provide for elite control, endanger liberty, and weaken the states. This means that they thought the constitution would give too much power to a small group of elites, which would undermine the principles of democracy and individual freedom. Additionally, they believed that the constitution would weaken the authority and autonomy of the individual states, potentially leading to a centralized government with too much control over the states.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The principal type of federal aid for states and localities is
- A.
Urban renewal grants
- B.
Block grants
- C.
Disaster loans
- D.
Categorical grants
Correct Answer
D. Categorical grantsExplanation
Categorical grants are the principal type of federal aid for states and localities. These grants are specific and targeted, as they are provided for a particular category or purpose such as education, healthcare, or transportation. Unlike block grants that offer more flexibility to states in how they allocate funds, categorical grants come with specific guidelines and requirements that must be followed by the recipients. This ensures that the federal government can have more control and influence over how the funds are used to address specific needs or issues at the state and local level.Rate this question:
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- 12.
All the following represent examples of limited government EXCEPT
- A.
Congress not being allowed to pass ex post facto laws
- B.
The prohibitions of passage of bills of attainder laws
- C.
The reserved power clause of the Tenth Amendment
- D.
The inability of the president to grant titles of nobility
Correct Answer
D. The inability of the president to grant titles of nobilityExplanation
Limited government refers to a system in which the powers of the government are restricted by a constitution or a set of laws to protect individual rights and prevent the government from becoming too powerful. The inability of the president to grant titles of nobility is not an example of limited government. While it does relate to the powers of the president, it doesn't directly involve restricting government power or protecting individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 13.
How did the Anti-Federalists differ from the Federalists?
- A.
The Anti-Federalists believed that a strong central government would be too distant from the people
- B.
The Anti-Federalists had a more positive view of human nature
- C.
The Anti-Federalists were opposed to representative democracy
- D.
The Anti-Federalists wanted a stronger central government
Correct Answer
A. The Anti-Federalists believed that a strong central government would be too distant from the peopleExplanation
The Anti-Federalists differed from the Federalists in their belief that a strong central government would be too distant from the people. Unlike the Federalists, who advocated for a strong central government, the Anti-Federalists were concerned that a powerful central authority would not effectively represent the interests and needs of the general population. They believed in a more decentralized government structure that would allow for greater local control and involvement of the people in decision-making processes.Rate this question:
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- 14.
All of the following supreme court cases dealt with the issue of federalism EXCEPT
- A.
Barron v Baltimore
- B.
Marbury v. Madison
- C.
Gibbons v. Ogden
- D.
McCulloch v. Maryland
Correct Answer
B. Marbury v. MadisonExplanation
Marbury v. Madison is the correct answer because this case did not directly deal with the issue of federalism. Instead, it established the principle of judicial review, giving the Supreme Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional. While the other cases listed all involved federalism, addressing the division of power between the federal government and the states, Marbury v. Madison focused on the authority of the judiciary branch.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Connecticut Compromise at the Constitutional Convention
- A.
Resolved the impasse between those who favored the New Jersey plan and those who preferred the Virginia Plan
- B.
Added the Bill of Rights to the Constitution in order to lessen concern about too much power for the new government
- C.
Settled the dispute over whether slavery should be allowed in the final constitution
- D.
Threw out the idea of having a monarchy in the United States, opting instead for an indirectly elected president
Correct Answer
A. Resolved the impasse between those who favored the New Jersey plan and those who preferred the Virginia PlanExplanation
The Connecticut Compromise at the Constitutional Convention resolved the impasse between those who favored the New Jersey plan and those who preferred the Virginia Plan. This compromise proposed a bicameral legislature, with one house based on population (Virginia Plan) and the other with equal representation for each state (New Jersey Plan). This compromise satisfied both small and large states, ensuring that each had a fair say in the legislative process.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The constitution's provision that congress has the right to "make all laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution" its pówers is often referred to as the
- A.
Heart of fiscal federalism
- B.
Elastic clause
- C.
Unwritten amendment
- D.
Privileges and immunities
Correct Answer
B. Elastic clauseExplanation
The correct answer is elastic clause. The elastic clause refers to the provision in the constitution that grants Congress the power to pass laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its other powers. This clause allows Congress to adapt and expand its powers to meet the changing needs of the country. It is often seen as a key component of federalism, as it allows for flexibility in the interpretation and application of the constitution.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Federalism is
- A.
Sole government authority in the national government
- B.
The same as unitary government
- C.
A system of shared power by the state and national governments
- D.
Sole government authority in the states
Correct Answer
C. A system of shared power by the state and national governmentsExplanation
Federalism is a system of shared power by the state and national governments. In a federal system, power and authority are divided between the central or national government and the state or regional governments. This division of power allows for a balance between the central authority and regional autonomy, ensuring that both levels of government have their own spheres of influence and responsibilities. This system allows for a more decentralized governance structure, where different levels of government can make decisions and enact policies that are best suited to the needs and interests of their respective jurisdictions.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Madison believed that in order to prevent a "tyranny of the majority" the new government should include all the following EXCEPT
- A.
Limiting the president's term of office
- B.
Creating different branches of government with distinctive and separate powers
- C.
Creating political institutions that could function with the consent of a majority
- D.
Limiting the ability of the electorate to vote directy for government officials except members of the house
Correct Answer
A. Limiting the president's term of officeExplanation
Madison believed that in order to prevent a "tyranny of the majority," the new government should include creating different branches of government with distinctive and separate powers, creating political institutions that could function with the consent of a majority, and limiting the ability of the electorate to vote directly for government officials except members of the house. However, he did not believe in limiting the president's term of office. This suggests that Madison believed in the importance of checks and balances and the separation of powers to prevent the concentration of power in one individual, but he did not see a need to limit the president's term as a safeguard against tyranny.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which statements best reflects what the United States Constitution represents?
- A.
The constitution is a basic framework for the government
- B.
The constitution is an explanation of the way government operates, assigning separate powers to each branch and guaranteeing citizens their rights
- C.
The constitution is the supreme law of the land
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The United States Constitution represents a basic framework for the government as it outlines the structure and functions of the government. It also serves as an explanation of the way the government operates, assigning separate powers to each branch. Additionally, the Constitution guarantees citizens their rights and is considered the supreme law of the land. Therefore, all three options best reflect what the United States Constitution represents.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following documents created a compromise that led to the formation of a bicameral legislature?
- A.
New Jersey plan
- B.
Connecticut Compromise
- C.
Articles of Confederation
- D.
Virginia Plan
Correct Answer
B. Connecticut CompromiseExplanation
The Connecticut Compromise created a compromise that led to the formation of a bicameral legislature. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and resolved the dispute between the large and small states regarding representation in the legislative branch. The Connecticut Compromise proposed a bicameral legislature, with one house based on equal representation for each state (Senate) and the other based on proportional representation (House of Representatives). This compromise was crucial in ensuring the ratification of the United States Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires states and local governments to provide equal access for the disabled. This is an example of a(n)
- A.
Mandate
- B.
Revenue sharing
- C.
Categorical grant
- D.
Administrative regulation
Correct Answer
A. MandateExplanation
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law that requires states and local governments to provide equal access for individuals with disabilities. This means that they must remove barriers and provide accommodations to ensure that disabled individuals have the same opportunities as everyone else. The word "mandate" accurately describes this requirement, as it is a command or directive that must be followed.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Ronald Reagan's vision of a new federalism favored
- A.
An increase in the power and authority of the federal government
- B.
An increase in federal mandates
- C.
A decrease in the defense budget
- D.
The downsizing of the federal government
Correct Answer
D. The downsizing of the federal governmentExplanation
Ronald Reagan's vision of a new federalism favored the downsizing of the federal government. This means that Reagan believed in reducing the size and scope of the federal government, giving more power and authority to the states and local governments. Reagan aimed to decrease the federal government's involvement in various areas, including social welfare programs and regulations, in order to promote limited government and individual freedom. This approach was part of Reagan's overall philosophy of reducing government intervention and promoting free-market principles.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following represents a major reason why the Electoral College was created
- A.
It would encourage greater voter turn out
- B.
It would encourage third-party candidates
- C.
It would give the voteres in smaller states a greater role in selecting the president and vice president
- D.
It would give more power to the elite in determining the outcome of presidential elections
Correct Answer
D. It would give more power to the elite in determining the outcome of presidential electionsExplanation
The correct answer is "it would give more power to the elite in determining the outcome of presidential elections." The Electoral College was created as a compromise between those who wanted the president to be elected by Congress and those who wanted the president to be elected by popular vote. The framers of the Constitution believed that the general population was not educated enough to make informed decisions about the presidency, so they created the Electoral College as a way for a group of electors, who were considered to be more knowledgeable and elite, to make the final decision. This system gave more power to the elite in determining the outcome of presidential elections.Rate this question:
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- 24.
All of the following are considered enumerated powers of the congress EXCEPT
- A.
Coining united states currency after the constitution was ratified
- B.
Establishing uniform immigration laws
- C.
Regulating commerce among the several states
- D.
Setting up the first national bank of the United States
Correct Answer
D. Setting up the first national bank of the United StatesExplanation
The correct answer is setting up the first national bank of the United States. This is because the power to establish a national bank is not explicitly granted to Congress in the Constitution. However, the power to coin money, establish uniform immigration laws, and regulate commerce among the states are all enumerated powers of Congress explicitly stated in the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 25.
In dual federalism
- A.
States and the national government each remain supreme within their own spheres
- B.
The state governments assume greater fiscal responsibility
- C.
The federal government assumes greater fiscal responsibility
- D.
Powers are shared between states and the federal government
Correct Answer
A. States and the national government each remain supreme within their own spheresExplanation
In dual federalism, states and the national government each have their own areas of authority and power. This means that both levels of government are considered supreme within their respective spheres. They have separate and independent powers, and neither level of government can encroach upon the authority of the other. The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution serves as the constitutional basis for dual federalism. This amendment states that any powers not delegated to the federal government or prohibited by the Constitution are reserved for the states or the people. This concept of dual sovereignty allows for a clear division of powers and responsibilities between the states and the national government, ensuring that each retains its own autonomy and independence.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The primary thrust of the original intent and wording of the Tenth Amendment is that
- A.
National laws override state laws when there is a conflict between the two
- B.
Both the states and national government ar bound by the limtations in the bill of rights
- C.
States have certain powers that the national government cannot encroach upon
- D.
The national government can take control of a state government during a national emergency
Correct Answer
C. States have certain powers that the national government cannot encroach uponExplanation
The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution states that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people. This means that the states have certain powers and authority that the national government cannot infringe upon. It establishes a balance of power between the federal government and the states, ensuring that the states have autonomy and can govern themselves within their own jurisdiction. This principle of federalism is a fundamental aspect of the American political system.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which of the following statements best reflects the political philosophy established after the colonists achieved their independence?
- the former colonists eliminated property criterion for political office
- the former colonists recognized the need for a strong executive
- the former colonists believed that the state should become the dominant political and social force
- A.
All
- B.
1 and 2
- C.
1
- D.
3
Correct Answer
D. 3Explanation
After achieving independence, the former colonists believed that the state should become the dominant political and social force. This suggests that they favored a strong central government and centralized power, rather than dispersing power among the people or limiting the government's authority.Rate this question:
- 28.
Fiscal federalism is
- A.
The pattern of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal system
- B.
The federal income tax
- C.
A sharing of local and national resources practiced in other countries but not in the United States
- D.
The federal government's regulation of the money supply and interest rates
Correct Answer
A. The pattern of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal systemExplanation
Fiscal federalism refers to the system of how funds are allocated and managed between different levels of government in a federal system. It involves the distribution of financial resources through spending, taxation, and grants. This allows for the coordination and sharing of resources between the central government and local governments, ensuring that public services and infrastructure are adequately funded and provided for. This concept is commonly practiced in federal countries like the United States, where both the federal government and individual states have the authority to levy taxes and allocate funds for various purposes.Rate this question:
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- 29.
In determining congressional representation and taxation, the constitution
- A.
Counted slaves and 1/2 of a person
- B.
Counted slaves and 3/5 of a person
- C.
Was silent on the issue of how slaves would be counted, instead leaving the issue to each state to decide
- D.
Did not count slaves
Correct Answer
B. Counted slaves and 3/5 of a personExplanation
The correct answer is that the constitution counted slaves as 3/5 of a person. This was known as the Three-Fifths Compromise, which was a compromise reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It determined that for the purposes of representation in Congress and taxation, slaves would be counted as three-fifths of a person. This compromise was a result of the disagreement between the northern and southern states over how slaves should be counted. The compromise allowed the southern states to have more representation in Congress, while the northern states were able to limit the political power of the southern states.Rate this question:
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- 30.
In determining the power of Congress to regulate commerce in the case of Gibbons v. Ogden, the Supreme Court
- A.
Defined commerce very broadly, encompassing virtually every form of commercial activity
- B.
Listed the enumerated powers of congress and the national government
- C.
Prohibited congress from regulationg business activity on the grounds it violated
- D.
Defined commerce very narrowly in considering the right of congress to regulate it
Correct Answer
A. Defined commerce very broadly, encompassing virtually every form of commercial activityExplanation
In the case of Gibbons v. Ogden, the Supreme Court defined commerce very broadly, encompassing virtually every form of commercial activity. This means that Congress has the power to regulate not just the buying and selling of goods, but also any other commercial activities that are related to interstate trade. This broad definition allows Congress to have a wide scope of authority in regulating commerce and ensures that it can effectively oversee and manage the national economy.Rate this question:
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- 31.
According to the constitution, each state was entitled to how many senators?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
As many as it wanted to send
- D.
It depended out the state's population
Correct Answer
B. 2Explanation
According to the constitution, each state was entitled to two senators. This is based on the principle of equal representation, where each state, regardless of its population, is given an equal number of senators. This ensures that smaller states have an equal say in the legislative process as larger states.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The Bill of Rights was added to the constitution
- A.
In 1865 after the union victory in the civil war
- B.
During the constitutional convention, at the insistence of Thomas Jefferson
- C.
After the ratification process was complete, and partly to fulfill a promise to those who supported ratification
- D.
During the ratification process, before final ratification of the constitution
Correct Answer
C. After the ratification process was complete, and partly to fulfill a promise to those who supported ratificationExplanation
The Bill of Rights was added to the constitution after the ratification process was complete, and partly to fulfill a promise to those who supported ratification. This means that the Bill of Rights was not initially included in the Constitution but was added later on. It was added after the ratification process, meaning that it was not part of the original document that was ratified. Additionally, it was added partly to fulfill a promise made to those who supported the ratification of the Constitution. This suggests that the inclusion of the Bill of Rights was a way to address concerns and gain support from those who were hesitant to ratify the Constitution without these specific rights being guaranteed.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of these was NOT a principle established in the case of McCulloch V. Maryland?
- A.
A national government is supreme to the states when it is acting within its spheres of action
- B.
State laws preempt national laws when the national government clearly exceeds its constitutional powers and intrudes upon state powers
- C.
State governments are forbidden from spending more money than they raise each year, which there is no such requirement on the national government
- D.
The national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers
Correct Answer
C. State governments are forbidden from spending more money than they raise each year, which there is no such requirement on the national governmentExplanation
In the case of McCulloch v. Maryland, the principle established was that the national government is supreme to the states when it is acting within its spheres of action. This means that the national government has authority over the states in certain areas. Another principle established was that the national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers. This means that the national government has powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are necessary to carry out its enumerated powers. Additionally, it was established that state laws preempt national laws when the national government exceeds its constitutional powers and intrudes upon state powers. However, there was no principle established that state governments are forbidden from spending more money than they raise each year, while there is no such requirement on the national government.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Under the original Constitution, which branch or branches of government were selected directly by the citizens?
- A.
The President and Vice President
- B.
The Supreme Court
- C.
The Senate
- D.
The House of Representatives
Correct Answer
D. The House of RepresentativesExplanation
Under the original Constitution, the House of Representatives was the branch of government that was selected directly by the citizens. This is because the House of Representatives is the lower house of Congress and its members are elected by the people in their respective districts. The President and Vice President are elected through the Electoral College system, the Supreme Court justices are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, and the Senate was originally selected by state legislatures, not directly by the citizens.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following statements best describes the Articles of Confederation?
- A.
Domination of the government by the states
- B.
A national congress with one house and no executive
- C.
No national court system and no ability of the central government to enforce the collection of taxes
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above". The Articles of Confederation were a governing document adopted by the United States in 1777. They established a weak central government with most power held by the individual states. The national congress had only one house and there was no executive branch. There was also no national court system. Additionally, the central government lacked the ability to enforce the collection of taxes. Therefore, all of the statements provided accurately describe the Articles of Confederation.Rate this question:
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