Test Your Knowledge Of The Great American Constitution
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Understanding the American constitution is important for every citizen. This helps them to identify and know their rights and how to react when they have been violated. Have you read the American Constitution? Take up the fun quiz below and see what you know about it. All the best!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What document broke our ties with mother England?
- A.
Emancipation Proclamation
- B.
Articles of Confederation
- C.
US Constitution
- D.
Declaration of Independence
Correct Answer
D. Declaration of IndependenceExplanation
The Declaration of Independence is the document that broke our ties with mother England. It was a statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies as independent states and no longer under British rule. The document outlined the reasons for seeking independence and asserted the natural rights of individuals, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It marked a significant turning point in American history and laid the foundation for the formation of the United States of America.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
- A.
James Madison
- B.
Thomas Jefferson
- C.
George Washington
- D.
Thomas Paine
Correct Answer
B. Thomas JeffersonExplanation
Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. He was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and was chosen by the Continental Congress to draft the document. Jefferson's eloquent writing and strong belief in individual rights and freedoms made him the ideal candidate for this task. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, and it laid the foundation for the United States' independence from Great Britain. Jefferson's contributions to American history extend beyond the Declaration of Independence, as he later served as the third President of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What branch makes the law?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch makes the law. This branch is responsible for creating, debating, and passing laws. It consists of elected representatives who represent the people and make decisions on their behalf. The legislative branch plays a crucial role in the democratic process by ensuring that laws are fair, just, and representative of the will of the people.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What branch enforces the law?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. ExecutiveExplanation
The branch that enforces the law is the executive branch. This branch is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws that are created by the legislative branch. The executive branch is headed by the president or prime minister and includes various departments and agencies that are responsible for enforcing and implementing the laws of the country. They have the power to enforce laws, make regulations, and ensure that individuals and organizations comply with the law.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What branch interprets and applies the law?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch that interprets and applies the law is the judicial branch. This branch is responsible for ensuring that laws are interpreted correctly and applied fairly in legal cases. Judges in the judicial branch have the authority to make decisions, resolve disputes, and uphold the rule of law. They play a crucial role in the legal system by interpreting laws, determining guilt or innocence, and protecting individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 6.
If a flag becomes torn or tattered, what should you do?
- A.
Burn it and bury it
- B.
Lower it to half mast
- C.
Take it down
- D.
Fly it upside down
Correct Answer
A. Burn it and bury itExplanation
When a flag becomes torn or tattered, it is considered disrespectful to continue flying it. The proper protocol is to retire the flag in a dignified manner. Burning the flag and burying the ashes is a common method of retiring a flag, as it symbolizes the flag returning to the earth. This ensures that the flag is properly disposed of and shows respect for the national symbol.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What plan at the Philadelphia Convention favored the large states b/c it wanted representation based on population?
- A.
Virginia Plan
- B.
New Jersey Plan
- C.
Connecticut Compromise (Great Compromise)
Correct Answer
A. Virginia PlanExplanation
The Virginia Plan at the Philadelphia Convention favored the large states because it proposed representation based on population. This meant that states with larger populations would have more representatives in the legislative branch, giving them a greater voice and influence in decision-making. This plan was supported by states like Virginia, which had a larger population and wanted to ensure that their interests were adequately represented in the new government.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What problem did the Great Compromise settle?
- A.
Taxation
- B.
Representation
- C.
Slavery
- D.
Trade
Correct Answer
B. RepresentationExplanation
The CT. Compromise compromised on the VA/NJ plans which approached representation differently. Big states got the House, small states got the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT true about the Articles of Confederation?
- A.
It was a confederacy, so powered lied at the state level.
- B.
It only had one branch of government; a legislative branch. No executives or courts.
- C.
It was a very strong government that heavily taxed the people.
- D.
It was replaced by a stronger Constitution.
Correct Answer
C. It was a very strong government that heavily taxed the people.Explanation
The Articles of Confederation were not a very strong government that heavily taxed the people. The Articles created a weak central government with limited powers, as power primarily resided at the state level. It only had a legislative branch and did not have executives or courts. The Articles of Confederation were eventually replaced by the stronger Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What fraction of Congress does it take to override a veto of President?
- A.
1/2
- B.
1/3
- C.
3/4
- D.
2/3
Correct Answer
D. 2/3Explanation
To override a veto of the President, it takes a fraction of Congress that is greater than or equal to two-thirds. This means that at least two-thirds of both the House of Representatives and the Senate must vote in favor of overriding the veto. Therefore, the correct answer is 2/3.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What fraction of Congress does it take to "propose an amendment"? (Step 1 of the amendment process)
- A.
1/2
- B.
2/3
- C.
3/4
- D.
1/3
Correct Answer
B. 2/3Explanation
In the amendment process, it takes a two-thirds majority of Congress to propose an amendment. This means that at least two-thirds of the members of both the House of Representatives and the Senate need to agree on the proposed amendment in order for it to move forward in the process. This requirement ensures that any proposed amendment has significant support and consensus among lawmakers before it can be considered further.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following is not true about the House and Senate?
- A.
The House approves treaties of the President.
- B.
The Senate approves appointments made by the President.
- C.
The House starts all revenue or spending bills.
- D.
If the President and Vice President were to both die, the Speaker of the House would take over.
Correct Answer
A. The House approves treaties of the President.Explanation
The House of Representatives does not have the authority to approve treaties made by the President. This power lies with the Senate, which is responsible for ratifying treaties through a two-thirds majority vote. The House primarily focuses on initiating revenue and spending bills, while the Senate confirms appointments made by the President. In the event of the death of both the President and Vice President, the Speaker of the House is next in line for succession.Rate this question:
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- 13.
How many total amendments are there to the Constitution?
- A.
36
- B.
10
- C.
27
- D.
21
Correct Answer
C. 27Explanation
There are a total of 27 amendments to the Constitution. These amendments serve as additions or changes to the original text of the Constitution and address various issues such as civil rights, voting rights, and government powers. Each amendment requires a specific process for ratification, involving approval by both the federal government and the states. The 27 amendments reflect the evolving needs and values of the American society since the Constitution was first drafted in 1787.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What amendments make up the Bill of Rights?
- A.
The first 5
- B.
The first 10
- C.
The first 15
- D.
The first 2
Correct Answer
B. The first 10Explanation
The Bill of Rights is made up of the first 10 amendments to the United States Constitution. These amendments were added to protect individual rights and limit the power of the government. They include important rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to bear arms. By specifying that the correct answer is "the first 10," it indicates that the Bill of Rights consists of these specific amendments and not any others.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What level of government does the Bill of Rights apply to?
- A.
Local government
- B.
State government
- C.
National government
- D.
All 3 levels of government
Correct Answer
D. All 3 levels of governmentExplanation
The Bill of Rights applies to all three levels of government. It is a set of fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from government interference and ensure their basic human rights are respected. These rights are applicable at the local, state, and national levels, ensuring that all levels of government are bound by the same principles and restrictions when it comes to individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What amendment gave women the right to vote?
- A.
15th
- B.
19th
- C.
24th
- D.
26th
Correct Answer
B. 19thExplanation
The 19th amendment granted women the right to vote. This amendment, ratified in 1920, prohibited any United States citizen from being denied the right to vote based on their sex. It was a significant milestone in the women's suffrage movement, which fought for equal voting rights for women. The 15th amendment, on the other hand, granted voting rights to African American men, while the 24th amendment abolished the poll tax, and the 26th amendment lowered the voting age to 18.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Giving aid and comfort to an enemy of the United States is called ____________.
- A.
Federalism
- B.
Logrolling
- C.
Treason
- D.
Habeas corpus
Correct Answer
C. TreasonExplanation
Giving aid and comfort to an enemy of the United States is called treason. Treason refers to the act of betraying one's country by providing support or assistance to its enemies. It is considered a serious crime and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or even death. The act of treason undermines national security and is seen as a direct threat to the integrity and well-being of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 18.
True or False? Habeas Corpus prevents people from being kept in jail indefinitely. It is a court order to see the judge which allows you to have a trial.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Habeas Corpus is a legal principle that ensures individuals cannot be detained indefinitely without a valid reason. It allows individuals to challenge their detention in court and have a fair trial. Therefore, the statement "Habeas Corpus prevents people from being kept in jail indefinitely" is true.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following is not a check the President has on Congress?
- A.
Veto
- B.
Call a special session
- C.
Judicial review
Correct Answer
C. Judicial reviewExplanation
The President has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress, which allows them to reject a bill and prevent it from becoming law. The President can also call a special session of Congress, which gives them the ability to convene lawmakers outside of the regular session to address specific issues. However, judicial review is not a check the President has on Congress. Judicial review is the power of the courts to interpret and determine the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress, not a power held by the President.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Due process rights include all of the following except...
- A.
Right to a second trial
- B.
Right to an attorney
- C.
Right to a fair and speedy trial
- D.
Freedom from self incrimination (remain silent)
Correct Answer
A. Right to a second trialExplanation
Due process rights ensure that individuals accused of a crime are treated fairly and have certain protections. These include the right to an attorney, the right to a fair and speedy trial, and freedom from self-incrimination. However, the right to a second trial is not typically included in due process rights. Once an individual has been tried and a verdict has been reached, the opportunity for a second trial is generally not guaranteed under due process.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Dividing power between the states and the national government is called....
- A.
Federalism
- B.
Checks and balances
- C.
Separation of powers
- D.
Impeachment
- E.
Treason
Correct Answer
A. FederalismExplanation
Dividing power between the states and the national government is referred to as federalism. This system allows for a distribution of authority and responsibilities between the central government and the individual states, ensuring a balance of power. It allows for the states to have some level of autonomy while still being a part of a larger, unified nation. This division of power helps to prevent the concentration of authority in one entity and promotes cooperation and collaboration between the different levels of government.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Giving each branch some degree of oversight of the other branches is called ________.
- A.
Federalism
- B.
Checks and balances
- C.
Separation of powers
- D.
Confederacy
Correct Answer
B. Checks and balancesExplanation
Checks and balances refers to the system in which each branch of government has the ability to limit the powers of the other branches in order to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. This system ensures that no single branch can dominate the others and helps to maintain a balance of power within the government.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Why did the framers originally meet in Philadelphia in 1787?
- A.
To praise the Articles of confederation
- B.
To amend the Articles of Confederation
- C.
To declare our independence
- D.
To write a whole new constituiton
Correct Answer
B. To amend the Articles of ConfederationExplanation
They later decide that they must rewrite.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following is not in the Bill of Rights?
- A.
18 year olds right to vote
- B.
Freedom of speech
- C.
Right to bear arms
- D.
Freedom from illegal searches and seizure
Correct Answer
A. 18 year olds right to voteExplanation
The 18 year olds right to vote is not in the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, which protect individual rights and liberties. The right to vote for 18 year olds is actually granted by the 26th Amendment, which was ratified in 1971. While the Bill of Rights guarantees various freedoms such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and freedom from illegal searches and seizure, it does not specifically mention the right to vote for 18 year olds.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following is not in the preamble of the Constitution?
- A.
Form a more perfect union
- B.
Establish justice
- C.
Ensure domestic tranquility
- D.
Provide for the common defense
- E.
Limit states' rights
Correct Answer
E. Limit states' rightsExplanation
The correct answer is "limit states' rights". The preamble of the Constitution outlines the goals and purposes of the Constitution, and it does not mention anything about limiting states' rights. The other options, such as forming a more perfect union, establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, and providing for the common defense, are all mentioned in the preamble as important objectives.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following is not a power/responsibility of the president?
- A.
Declare war
- B.
Be commander in chief
- C.
Prepare a budget for Congress to review
- D.
Call Congress into special sessions
- E.
Pardon individuals for their crimes
Correct Answer
A. Declare warExplanation
The president has the power and responsibility to be the commander in chief, prepare a budget for Congress to review, call Congress into special sessions, and pardon individuals for their crimes. However, the power to declare war lies with Congress, not the president. This is to ensure that the decision to go to war is made collectively and not solely by one individual.Rate this question:
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- 27.
According to the _____________ clause, states must recognize the legal documents of other states.
- A.
Full faith and credit
- B.
Privileges and immunities
- C.
Extradtion
- D.
Supremacy
Correct Answer
A. Full faith and creditExplanation
The correct answer is "full faith and credit." According to this clause, states are required to recognize and respect the legal documents (such as marriage licenses, court judgments, and contracts) of other states. This ensures that individuals and businesses can have their rights and obligations recognized and enforced across state lines, promoting consistency and fairness in the legal system.Rate this question:
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- 28.
When state and national law conflict, who is Supreme?
- A.
State govt.
- B.
National govt.
Correct Answer
B. National govt.Explanation
When state and national laws conflict, the national government is considered supreme. This is because the national government has authority over matters that affect the entire country, while state governments have authority over matters that only affect their respective states. The Supremacy Clause in the United States Constitution establishes that federal law prevails over state law in case of a conflict. Therefore, the national government has the final say in such situations.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which of the following is not a power of Congress?
- A.
Grants patents/copyrights
- B.
Raise the army and navy/declare war
- C.
Post office
- D.
Judicial review
- E.
Handle bankruptcy
Correct Answer
D. Judicial reviewExplanation
Judicial review is not a power of Congress. Judicial review refers to the power of the courts to review and interpret laws and determine their constitutionality. This power is held by the judicial branch of government, specifically the Supreme Court, and not by Congress. Congress, on the other hand, has the power to grant patents/copyrights, raise the army and navy/declare war, establish a post office, and handle bankruptcy.Rate this question:
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- 30.
To show respect during a time of mourning/national disaster what should you do?
- A.
Burn it and bury it.
- B.
Lower it to half mast.
Correct Answer
B. Lower it to half mast.Explanation
Lowering the flag to half mast is a widely recognized gesture of respect during a time of mourning or national disaster. It is a way to honor and pay tribute to those who have passed away or suffered during a tragic event. This act symbolizes the sadness and mourning that the nation or community is experiencing, and it is a way to show solidarity and empathy. By lowering the flag to half mast, it is a visible sign of respect and remembrance for the affected individuals and their families.Rate this question:
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- 31.
To be eligible to vote in the United States... which of the following is true?
- A.
You must be 18.
- B.
YOu must speak English.
- C.
You must own property.
- D.
YOu must pay a poll tax.
Correct Answer
A. You must be 18.Explanation
To be eligible to vote in the United States, one must be 18 years old. This is a requirement set by the law in order to ensure that individuals who participate in the democratic process are of a certain age and maturity level. The other options listed, such as speaking English, owning property, or paying a poll tax, are not requirements for voting in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Who is commander in chief?
- A.
President
- B.
Attorney General
- C.
Secretary of Defense
- D.
Surgeon General
Correct Answer
A. PresidentExplanation
The commander in chief is the President of a country. They have the ultimate authority and responsibility for the military forces of the nation. As the highest-ranking military officer, the President has the power to make important decisions regarding the defense and security of the country. The Attorney General, Secretary of Defense, and Surgeon General do not hold this position and do not have the same level of authority over the military.Rate this question:
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- 33.
How many terms can the president serve b/c of the 22nd amendment?
- A.
4
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
1
Correct Answer
B. 2Explanation
The 22nd amendment limits the number of terms a president can serve to two. This amendment was ratified in 1951 after Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected for four terms. It was implemented to prevent any president from serving more than two terms in order to uphold the principle of a peaceful transfer of power and prevent the concentration of power in one individual for an extended period of time. Therefore, the correct answer is 2.Rate this question:
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- 34.
What amendment contains the equal protection clause?
- A.
14th
- B.
19th
- C.
22nd
- D.
Option 4
Correct Answer
A. 14thExplanation
The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution contains the equal protection clause. This clause states that no state shall deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. It is a crucial provision that ensures that all individuals are treated equally under the law, regardless of their race, gender, or other protected characteristics. The 14th Amendment was ratified in 1868 and has been instrumental in many landmark civil rights cases throughout history.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 04, 2008Quiz Created by
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