Apsa Chapter 2/3 Test
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which person is NOT accurately associated?
- A.
Thomas Jefferson- wrote the Declaration of Independence.
- B.
George Washington- presided over the meeting in PHiladelphia
- C.
James Madison- father of our Constution
- D.
Patrick Henry- wrote the fiery pamphlet known as Common Sense
Correct Answer
D. Patrick Henry- wrote the fiery pamphlet known as Common SenseExplanation
Patrick Henry did not write the fiery pamphlet known as Common Sense. This pamphlet was actually written by Thomas Paine. Patrick Henry was a prominent figure in the American Revolution and is best known for his "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which plan at the Convention wanted representation to be based upon population and wealth of a state?
- A.
Virginia
- B.
New Jersey
- C.
3/5
- D.
Slave Trade and Commerce
Correct Answer
A. VirginiaExplanation
The Virginia Plan at the Convention proposed that representation in the government should be based on both population and wealth of a state. This plan was put forward by the delegates from Virginia, led by James Madison. They believed that states with larger populations and greater wealth should have more influence in the government. The Virginia Plan was in contrast to the New Jersey Plan, which called for equal representation for all states regardless of size or wealth.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What event really showed the new nation that the Articles of Confederation were much too weak to handle the country's problems?
- A.
Boston Tea Party
- B.
Shay's Rebellion
- C.
Philadelphia Convention
- D.
Stamp Act Congress
Correct Answer
B. Shay's RebellionExplanation
Shay's Rebellion is the event that showed the new nation that the Articles of Confederation were much too weak to handle the country's problems. This rebellion, led by Daniel Shays, was an armed uprising of farmers in Massachusetts who were protesting against high taxes and debt. The rebellion exposed the weaknesses of the central government under the Articles of Confederation, as it struggled to respond effectively to the rebellion and maintain law and order. This event highlighted the need for a stronger central government, ultimately leading to the Philadelphia Convention and the drafting of the United States Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which group preferred the Articles of Confederation to the new Constitution because they wanted to keep power at the level?
- A.
Federalists
- B.
Antifederalists
Correct Answer
B. AntifederalistsExplanation
The Antifederalists preferred the Articles of Confederation to the new Constitution because they wanted to keep power at the level. They believed in a weaker central government and wanted to ensure that the states had more authority and autonomy. They were concerned that the new Constitution would create a strong central government that could potentially infringe on individual liberties and the rights of the states. Therefore, they opposed the ratification of the Constitution and advocated for amendments that would limit the power of the federal government.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following items did the King tax of the British Colonists?
- A.
Sugar and spices
- B.
Paper goods
- C.
Tea
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
During the time of British colonization, the King imposed taxes on various items to generate revenue. The British Colonists were taxed on sugar and spices, paper goods, and tea. These taxes were imposed as a means for the British government to exert control over the colonies and to raise funds. Taxation of these items became a significant source of tension between the British government and the colonists, eventually leading to protests and the American Revolution. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above."Rate this question:
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- 6.
To propose an amendment it takes _____ vote of Congress or the states.
- A.
2/3
- B.
3/4
- C.
3/5
Correct Answer
A. 2/3Explanation
To propose an amendment, it takes a 2/3 vote of Congress or the states. This means that in order for an amendment to be proposed, at least two-thirds of the members of Congress or two-thirds of the states must vote in favor of it. This high threshold ensures that any proposed amendment has a broad level of support and is not easily passed without significant consensus.Rate this question:
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- 7.
To formally adopt an amendment it takes _______ vote of the state legislatures or special conventions of the people.
- A.
2/3
- B.
3/4
- C.
3/5
Correct Answer
B. 3/4Explanation
To formally adopt an amendment, it takes a 3/4 vote of the state legislatures or special conventions of the people. This means that in order for an amendment to be adopted, at least 3/4 of the state legislatures or special conventions must vote in favor of it. This requirement ensures that amendments have broad support and are not easily passed without significant consensus.Rate this question:
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- 8.
How many total amendments are there to the Constitution?
- A.
10
- B.
30
- C.
21
- D.
27
Correct Answer
D. 27Explanation
There are a total of 27 amendments to the Constitution. These amendments were added to address various issues and concerns that arose after the original Constitution was ratified. They cover a wide range of topics, including the protection of individual rights, the expansion of voting rights, and the establishment of presidential term limits. Each amendment went through a rigorous process of proposal and ratification, requiring the approval of both Congress and the states. Overall, these amendments have played a crucial role in shaping and evolving the Constitution to reflect the changing needs and values of the American society.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT true about amendments?
- A.
The first ten amendments are called the Bill of Rights.
- B.
The amendment process is fairly easy and we often amend the Constitution.
- C.
Some topics like the ERA and child labor got through the proposal step of the amendment process but were never adopted. The ERA for women failed to become an amendment.
- D.
We actually amend the Constitution more formally than informally.
Correct Answer
D. We actually amend the Constitution more formally than informally.Explanation
The Constitution is more likely to have subtle updates through court cases, executive actions, etc. than be actually changed.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following methods is used to informally amend the Constitution?
- A.
Court cases
- B.
Executive actions
- C.
Customs and traditions
- D.
Party practices
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
All of the above methods - court cases, executive actions, customs and traditions, and party practices - are used to informally amend the Constitution. Court cases can interpret and shape the meaning of the Constitution, while executive actions can establish precedents and practices that may become informally binding. Customs and traditions can also influence the interpretation and application of the Constitution. Additionally, party practices, such as the nomination and confirmation of judges, can have a significant impact on the interpretation and enforcement of constitutional principles.Rate this question:
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- 11.
To formally approve is called ______.
- A.
Ratification
- B.
Unicameral
- C.
Informally amend
Correct Answer
A. RatificationExplanation
Ratification refers to the formal approval or confirmation of something, such as a decision, agreement, or law. It is the process of giving official consent or endorsement to an action or document. In this context, ratification is the appropriate term because it aligns with the notion of formally approving something. Unicameral refers to a legislative body with a single chamber, while informally amend suggests making changes to something without following a formal process.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Congress is given the power to make laws while the President is given the power to enforce them. Each having distinct and different responsibilities is called _____.
- A.
Separation of powers
- B.
Checks and balances
- C.
Federalism
Correct Answer
A. Separation of powersExplanation
The concept described in the question is known as separation of powers. This principle ensures that the powers of the government are divided among different branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. In this case, Congress is responsible for making laws, while the President is responsible for enforcing them. This division of responsibilities helps maintain a system of checks and balances within the government.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The ideas that government must be restrained and that government officials are not above the law make up what principle?
- A.
Separation of powers
- B.
Limited government
- C.
Federalism
Correct Answer
B. Limited governmentExplanation
The principle of limited government is based on the ideas that government must be restrained and that government officials are not above the law. It advocates for a government with limited powers and emphasizes the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms. This principle ensures that the government is accountable to the people and prevents it from becoming too powerful or oppressive. Separation of powers and federalism are related concepts, but they do not directly address the idea that government must be restrained and officials are not above the law.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which type of colony was by far the most democratic?
- A.
Royal
- B.
Proprietary
- C.
Charter
Correct Answer
C. CharterExplanation
Charter colonies were by far the most democratic type of colony. Unlike royal colonies, which were under direct control of the British crown, and proprietary colonies, which were granted to individuals or groups by the crown, charter colonies were self-governing. They had a written charter that outlined their rights and privileges, allowing them to elect their own governors and make their own laws. This gave the colonists in charter colonies a greater degree of political freedom and participation in their own governance.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which type of colony was by far the most controlled by the King?
- A.
Charter
- B.
Royal
- C.
Proprietary
Correct Answer
B. RoyalExplanation
The term "royal" refers to a type of colony that was directly controlled by the King. In this type of colony, the King appointed a governor to oversee the colony and make decisions on his behalf. The King had the ultimate authority and control over the colony's governance and policies. This type of colony was the most controlled by the King compared to the other options, charter and proprietary colonies.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What group helped organize boycotts and protests in the colonies?
- A.
Sons of liberties
- B.
Committees of correspondence
- C.
Wednesday's women
Correct Answer
A. Sons of libertiesExplanation
The Sons of Liberty were a group that played a significant role in organizing boycotts and protests in the colonies. They were formed in response to the Stamp Act in 1765 and became known for their resistance against British policies. The Sons of Liberty organized rallies, demonstrations, and acts of civil disobedience to protest against British taxation and other oppressive measures. They were instrumental in mobilizing public support and fostering a sense of unity among the colonists in their fight for independence.Rate this question:
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- 17.
The Connecticut Compromise decided to create a bicameral legislature with representation determined by ______ in the House.
- A.
Population
- B.
Equality
- C.
Wealth
Correct Answer
A. PopulationExplanation
The Connecticut Compromise decided to create a bicameral legislature with representation determined by population in the House. This means that the number of representatives in the House would be based on the population of each state. This compromise was reached in order to balance the interests of both small and large states, as smaller states were concerned about being overshadowed by larger states in the legislative process. By basing representation on population, it ensured that each state would have a voice in the House proportionate to its population size.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Under the Articles of Confederation which of the following was true?
- A.
It only took a simple majority to pass laws.
- B.
Making amendments was relatively easy.
- C.
The government under the Articles heavily taxed the people.
- D.
The Articles only had one branch of government- a legislature that was unicameral.
Correct Answer
D. The Articles only had one branch of government- a legislature that was unicameral.Explanation
The correct answer is that the Articles only had one branch of government, a unicameral legislature. This means that there was no separate executive or judicial branch in the government established by the Articles of Confederation. The unicameral legislature consisted of representatives from each state, and decisions were made by a simple majority vote. The Articles did not heavily tax the people, and making amendments to the Articles was actually quite difficult, requiring the unanimous consent of all thirteen states.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which document was signed in 1215 by nobles in England attempting to restrict the power of the King?
- A.
Magna Carta
- B.
English Bill of Rights
- C.
Petition of Rights
Correct Answer
A. Magna CartaExplanation
The Magna Carta was signed in 1215 by nobles in England in an attempt to limit the power of the King. It was a landmark document that established certain rights and liberties for the nobility and established the principle that the King was not above the law. The Magna Carta laid the groundwork for the development of constitutional law and the protection of individual rights in England and later influenced the development of similar documents in other countries.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What war was so expensive that the King decided to tax the colonists to help pay for it?
- A.
Revolutionary War
- B.
Civil War
- C.
French and Indian War
Correct Answer
C. French and Indian WarExplanation
The French and Indian War was so expensive that the King decided to tax the colonists to help pay for it. This war, fought between Great Britain and France, lasted from 1754 to 1763 and resulted in a significant financial burden for the British government. To recover the costs, the British Parliament imposed various taxes on the American colonies, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, which eventually led to widespread protests and ultimately fueled the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 21.
In the Constitution... what branch enforces the laws?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. ExecutiveExplanation
The branch that enforces the laws in the Constitution is the Executive branch. This branch is responsible for implementing and carrying out the laws passed by the Legislative branch. The Executive branch is headed by the President of the United States and includes various departments and agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The President has the power to appoint officials, issue executive orders, and ensure that the laws of the land are enforced.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The new Constitution would take effect as soon as ____ out of 13 states signed it.
- A.
7
- B.
9
- C.
13
Correct Answer
B. 9Explanation
The new Constitution would take effect as soon as 9 out of 13 states signed it because the question is asking for the minimum number of states needed to ratify the Constitution for it to become effective. Out of the three options given, 9 is the only number that is less than 13 and greater than half of 13 (which would be 6.5). Therefore, 9 is the correct answer as it represents the majority of states required for the Constitution to be implemented.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which state did not attend the Philadelphia Convention?
- A.
Rhode Island
- B.
Pennsylvania
- C.
Georgia
Correct Answer
A. Rhode IslandExplanation
Rhode Island did not attend the Philadelphia Convention.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following men did not write the Federalist Papers?
- A.
John Jay
- B.
Alexander Hamilton
- C.
Thomas Jefferson
- D.
James Madison
Correct Answer
C. Thomas JeffersonExplanation
Thomas Jefferson did not write the Federalist Papers. The Federalist Papers were a series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay. These essays were published in newspapers to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. While Thomas Jefferson was an influential figure during this time period, he did not contribute to the writing of the Federalist Papers.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What was the name of our first Constitution?
- A.
Magna Carta
- B.
Articles of Confederation
- C.
Petition of Rights
Correct Answer
B. Articles of ConfederationExplanation
The correct answer is Articles of Confederation. The Articles of Confederation was the first constitution of the United States, adopted in 1781. It established a weak central government with limited powers, as the framers were cautious about creating a strong central authority after their experience with British rule. However, the Articles proved to be ineffective in governing the country, leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following was NOT a power of the government under the Articles?
- A.
Make war and peace
- B.
Coin money
- C.
Set up a post office
- D.
Send and receive ambassadors
- E.
Levy taxes
Correct Answer
E. Levy taxesExplanation
The government under the Articles had the power to make war and peace, coin money, set up a post office, and send and receive ambassadors. However, it did not have the power to levy taxes. This meant that the government was unable to generate revenue to fund its operations and fulfill its responsibilities effectively. This lack of taxation power was one of the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, leading to its eventual replacement by the Constitution.Rate this question:
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