Free GED Social Studies Exam

1. The first 10 amendments to the Constitution are known as the ______.

Bill of Rights

Civil liberties

Individual rights

Personal freedoms

A. The Bill of Rights is another name for the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

Explanation

A. The Bill of Rights is another name for the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

2. Why did the Framers create the Bill of Rights?

To give more power to the federal government

To strengthen protections of citizens’ individual rights

To fix mistakes the Founders made in the Constitution

To appease the Federalists who insisted on the amendments

B.The Founders wrote the 10 amendments in the Bill of Rights because several states argued that the U.S. Constitution should include stronger protection for citizens’ individual rights. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

Explanation

B.The Founders wrote the 10 amendments in the Bill of Rights because several states argued that the U.S. Constitution should include stronger protection for citizens’ individual rights. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

3. A coral reef is an example of which type of ecosystem?

Tundra

Marine

Swamp

Rainforest

B. A coral reef is an ecosystem of plants and animals living in shallow tropical waters. Water ecosystems are also called marine ecosystems. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

Explanation

B. A coral reef is an ecosystem of plants and animals living in shallow tropical waters. Water ecosystems are also called marine ecosystems. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

4. The Founders wanted to create “a government of ______, not men.”

Law

Work

Paper

States

A. John Adams said that America would “be a government of laws, not men.” In other words, all people are subject to the laws written in the Constitution, not the decisions of government officials. See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

Explanation

A. John Adams said that America would “be a government of laws, not men.” In other words, all people are subject to the laws written in the Constitution, not the decisions of government officials. See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

5. What is the purpose of a primary election?

To allow all citizens to register

To ensure all voting machines work

To elect the president of the country

To choose candidate to run for a party

D. Leading up to an election, parties hold a primary election to determine who will run for their party in the general election. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

Explanation

D. Leading up to an election, parties hold a primary election to determine who will run for their party in the general election. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

6. The following question is based on the passage below. The passage is an excerpt from Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points, his proposal for the peace system after World War I. "Absolute freedom of navigation upon the seas, outside territorial waters, alike in peace and in war, except as the seas may be closed in whole or in part by international action for the enforcement of international covenants. … A free, open-minded, and absolutely impartial adjustment of all colonial claims, based upon a strict observance of the principle that in determining all such questions of sovereignty the interests of the populations concerned must have equal weight with the equitable claims of the government whose title is to be determined. … A general association of nations must be formed under specific covenants for the purpose of affording mutual guarantees of political independence and territorial integrity to great and small states alike." Question: What is the general association of nations to which Wilson refers?

The United Nations

The European Union

The League of Nations

The Congress of Europe

A. The League of Nations was the result of Wilson’s desire for a supranational body. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

Explanation

A. The League of Nations was the result of Wilson’s desire for a supranational body. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

7. Which BEST defines individual rights?

Rights given to government officials

Freedoms granted to every human being

Rights given to people who apply and qualify for them

Freedoms granted when a citizen becomes 18 years of age

B. Individual rights are the freedoms granted to every individual. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

Explanation

B. Individual rights are the freedoms granted to every individual. See Lesson: Individual Rights and Civic Responsibilities.

8. In product markets, who are the buyers?

Firms

Households

Governments

Banks and credit unions

B. In product markets, households demand and buy goods and services. Firms supply and sell goods and services. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

Explanation

B. In product markets, households demand and buy goods and services. Firms supply and sell goods and services. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

9. A community of organisms connected to their environment is a(n) ______.

Location

Ecosystem

Natural habitat

Biodiverse location

B. An ecosystem is a community of organisms connected to their environment. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

Explanation

B. An ecosystem is a community of organisms connected to their environment. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

10. The following question is based on the passage below. The passage is an excerpt from Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points, his proposal for the peace system after World War I. "Absolute freedom of navigation upon the seas, outside territorial waters, alike in peace and in war, except as the seas may be closed in whole or in part by international action for the enforcement of international covenants. … A free, open-minded, and absolutely impartial adjustment of all colonial claims, based upon a strict observance of the principle that in determining all such questions of sovereignty the interests of the populations concerned must have equal weight with the equitable claims of the government whose title is to be determined. … A general association of nations must be formed under specific covenants for the purpose of affording mutual guarantees of political independence and territorial integrity to great and small states alike." Question: Which of the following BEST explains what the effect of Wilson calling for an "impartial adjustment of all colonial claims" might have been?

Africa and Asia ignored this statement.

Colonies began to petition for independence.

Countries gave up most of their colonies peacefully.

European nations engaged in a scramble for new colonies

B. Colonized countries began to agitate for independence in the wake of Wilson’s announcement. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

Explanation

B. Colonized countries began to agitate for independence in the wake of Wilson’s announcement. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

11. Who holds the most power in a democracy?

Citizens

Police officers

Government officials

Representatives of the president

A. In a democracy, citizens—the people being governed—hold the ultimate power. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

Explanation

A. In a democracy, citizens—the people being governed—hold the ultimate power. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

12. How is a representative democracy different from a direct democracy?

In a direct democracy, there is a president; in a representative democracy, there is not.

In a representative democracy, there is a constitution; in a direct democracy, there is not.

In a direct democracy, citizens can change their vote; in a representative democracy, a vote cannot be changed.

In a representative democracy, citizens elect people to vote for them; in a direct democracy, every person votes.

D. A representative democracy is a type of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions about laws. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

Explanation

D. A representative democracy is a type of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions about laws. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

13. Which of the following would be found in a freshwater ecosystem?

Forest

Coral reef

Lake Ontario

Pacific Ocean

C. A freshwater ecosystem has running streams and fresh water. Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes, is part of a freshwater ecosystem. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

Explanation

C. A freshwater ecosystem has running streams and fresh water. Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes, is part of a freshwater ecosystem. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

14. A tundra is a cold, windy, treeless region. Which of the following states or countries has tundra?

Laos

Russia

Hawaii

Argentina

B. Russia has a tundra region. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

Explanation

B. Russia has a tundra region. See Lesson: Global Connections: Cultures & Society.

15. The Second Industrial Revolution focused on which sector of the economy?

Steel

Canals

Textiles

Electronics

A. The second industrial revolution was made possible through techniques enabling the cheap mass production of steel. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

Explanation

A. The second industrial revolution was made possible through techniques enabling the cheap mass production of steel. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

16. When an explorer was successful, what happened to the economy of the country he represented?

It maintained equilibrium between supply and demand.

It became chaotic because of increased unemployment.

It grew stronger because of increased trade opportunities.

It experienced inflation because of the huge expense of financing a ship.

C. The capitalist economy of a European country improved with successful exploration. New trading routes and partners willing to be part of the free market in Europe were beneficial. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

Explanation

C. The capitalist economy of a European country improved with successful exploration. New trading routes and partners willing to be part of the free market in Europe were beneficial. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

17. What is the title of the people who elect the president of the United States?

Electors

Congress

Electorate

Governors

A. To become president of the United States, a candidate must earn at least half of the votes cast by the Electoral College, which is made up of electors. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

Explanation

A. To become president of the United States, a candidate must earn at least half of the votes cast by the Electoral College, which is made up of electors. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

18. What happens when production costs increase?

More goods are produced.

There is deflation in the economy.

Price of goods produced increases.

Production is stopped, and resources are placed in a different product.

C. Higher production costs increase prices, which may cause inflation. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

Explanation

C. Higher production costs increase prices, which may cause inflation. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

19. Why did early Egyptian civilization prosper?

The Nile River valley provided rich soils and an abundance of fish.

The Amazon River basin provided the necessary ecosystem for survival.

The Indus River valley provided means of transportation for the Egyptians.

The Yangtze River established boundaries between Egypt and North Africa.

A. The Nile River flows through Egypt. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

Explanation

A. The Nile River flows through Egypt. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

20. Which BEST defines the job of the Speaker of the House?

Speaks for the Senate

Represents everyone in Congress

Advises the president on legal decisions

Presides over the House of Representatives

D. The Speaker of the House serves as the presiding officer of the House of Representatives. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

Explanation

D. The Speaker of the House serves as the presiding officer of the House of Representatives. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

21. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt of a document discussing Europe in 1948. In considering the requirements for the rehabilitation of Europe the physical loss of life, the visible destruction of cities, factories, mines, and railroads was correctly estimated, but it has become obvious during recent months that this visible destruction was probably less serious than the dislocation of the entire fabric of European economy. For the past 10 years conditions have been highly abnormal. The feverish maintenance of the war effort engulfed all aspects of national economics. Machinery has fallen into disrepair or is entirely obsolete. Under the arbitrary and destructive Nazi rule, virtually every possible enterprise was geared into the German war machine. … The truth of the matter is that Europe's requirements for the next 3 or 4 years of foreign food and other essential products—principally from America—are so much greater than her present ability to pay that she must have substantial additional help, or face economic, social, and political deterioration of a very grave character. … Aside from the demoralizing effect on the world at large and the possibilities of disturbances arising as a result of the desperation of the people concerned, the consequences to the economy of the United States should be apparent to all. It is logical that the United States should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace. Our policy is directed not against any country or doctrine but against hunger, poverty, desperation, and chaos. Its purpose should be the revival of working economy in the world so as to permit the emergence of political and social conditions in which free institutions can exist. … Any government which maneuvers to block the recovery of other countries cannot expect help from us. Furthermore, governments, political parties, or groups which seek to perpetuate human misery in order to profit therefrom politically or otherwise will encounter the opposition of the United States. Question: Based on this passage, what was the state of Europe in 1948?

Europe’s economy was strong after the war.

Europe was beginning to recover from the war.

Europe was well on the way to recovering from the war.

Europe’s economy remained badly damaged by the war.

D. The European economy had been heavily disordered by the effects of the war. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

Explanation

D. The European economy had been heavily disordered by the effects of the war. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

22. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt from the Northwest Ordinance, signed in 1787. "So soon as there shall be five thousand free male inhabitants of full age in the district, upon giving proof thereof to the governor, they shall receive authority, with time and place, to elect a representative from their counties or townships to represent them in the general assembly: Provided, That, for every five hundred free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative...Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three years; and, in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right, in fee simple, two hundred acres of land within the same; … And, for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which form the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions are erected; to fix and establish those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions, and governments, which forever hereafter shall be formed in the said territory: to provide also for the establishment of States, and permanent government therein, and for their admission to a share in the federal councils on an equal footing with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest: … Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged…" Question: What kind of improvement or infrastructure does the document endorse?

Forts

Roads

Schools

Governments

C. The ordinance encouraged states to build schools. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

Explanation

C. The ordinance encouraged states to build schools. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

23. Which BEST defines a town hall meeting?

Citizens meeting to discuss non-political topics

Interest groups spreading their message to the public

Political party members meeting to discuss a campaign

Politicians speaking directly with voters about current issues

D. At town hall meetings, politicians speak directly to voters about how they will govern. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

Explanation

D. At town hall meetings, politicians speak directly to voters about how they will govern. See Lesson: Political Parties, Campaigns, and Elections in American Politics.

24. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt from the Northwest Ordinance, signed in 1787. "So soon as there shall be five thousand free male inhabitants of full age in the district, upon giving proof thereof to the governor, they shall receive authority, with time and place, to elect a representative from their counties or townships to represent them in the general assembly: Provided, That, for every five hundred free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative...Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three years; and, in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right, in fee simple, two hundred acres of land within the same; … And, for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which form the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions are erected; to fix and establish those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions, and governments, which forever hereafter shall be formed in the said territory: to provide also for the establishment of States, and permanent government therein, and for their admission to a share in the federal councils on an equal footing with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest: … Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged…" Question: According to the excerpt, what was the purpose of the Northwest Ordinance?

Stopping further westward expansion

Purchasing land from Native Americans

Setting up governments in new territories

Establishing when the United States would acquire land

C. The purpose of the Northwest Ordinance was to clarify how new territories should be settled and governed. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

Explanation

C. The purpose of the Northwest Ordinance was to clarify how new territories should be settled and governed. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

25. The following question is based on the passage below. This is an excerpt from the Emancipation Proclamation. "That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free… "That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid, by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in which the people thereof, respectively, shall then be in rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State, or the people thereof, shall on that day be, in good faith, represented in the Congress of the United States by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive evidence that such State, and the people thereof, are not then in rebellion against the United States." … And by virtue of the power, and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States, and parts of States, are, and henceforward shall be free; and that the Executive government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons. … And I further declare and make known, that such persons of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service." Question: What is the MOST LIKELY reason why Lincoln only applied the Emancipation Proclamation to the Confederacy?

Lincoln didn’t want to alienate loyal states.

Lincoln didn’t want to offend other countries.

Lincoln didn’t want to completely end slavery.

Enslaved people in loyal states were needed for the war effort.

A. Several slaveholding states had remained in the Union, and Lincoln wanted these states to remain loyal. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

Explanation

A. Several slaveholding states had remained in the Union, and Lincoln wanted these states to remain loyal. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

26. The following question is based on the passage below. The following is an excerpt of Christopher Columbus's journal from 1492. In it, he describes the indigenous people he encountered on his first voyage. In fine, they took all, and gave what they had with good will. It appeared to me to be a race of people very poor in everything. They go as naked as when their mothers bore them, and so do the women, although I did not see more than one young girl...They neither carry nor know anything of arms, for I showed them swords, and they took them by the blade and cut themselves through ignorance. They have no iron, their darts being wands without iron, some of them having a fish's tooth at the end, and others being pointed in various ways. They are all of fair stature and size, with good laces, and well made...They should be good servants and intelligent, for I observed that they quickly took in what was said to them, and I believe that they would easily be made Christians, as it appeared to me that they had no religion, our Lord being pleased, will take hence, at the time of my departure, six natives for your Highnesses that they may learn to speak...The Admiral showed the Indians some specimens of cinnamon and pepper he had brought from Castillo, and they knew it, and said, by signs, that there was plenty in the vicinity, pointing to the S.E. He also showed them gold and pearls, on which certain old men said that there an infinite quantity in a place called Holito and that the people wore it on their necks, ears, arms, and legs, as well as pearls. Question: Why was Columbus interested in finding cinnamon and pepper?

He had given up on finding gold or silver.

He knew the Native Americans wanted them.

They were valuable and would sell well in Europe.

His men needed them for sustenance after the voyage.

B. Spain sponsored Columbus’s voyages in the hopes of finding supplies of spices. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.

Explanation

B. Spain sponsored Columbus’s voyages in the hopes of finding supplies of spices. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.

27. What makes the circular flow in a circular flow model function?

Money

Exchanges

Consumers

Government

A. Money is the medium of exchange in a market economy. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

Explanation

A. Money is the medium of exchange in a market economy. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

28. Why did Mark Twain describe the period following the Civil War as the Gilded Age?

He felt the wealth of the era was unseemly.

He believed that industrialization was a bad thing.

He believed that it was the wealthiest time in history.

He thought that the wealth of the time covered up ugly facts.

D. Twain believed that the Gilded Age was superficially positive but covered up ugly realities. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

Explanation

D. Twain believed that the Gilded Age was superficially positive but covered up ugly realities. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

29. What drives economic progress?

Trade barriers

Central planning

Entrepreneurial action

Government investment

C. Market economies are more effective than centralized economies. Resources are allocated through the decentralized decisions of many companies and individuals (entrepreneurs). See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

Explanation

C. Market economies are more effective than centralized economies. Resources are allocated through the decentralized decisions of many companies and individuals (entrepreneurs). See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

30. The following question is based on the passage below. The following is an excerpt of Christopher Columbus's journal from 1492. In it, he describes the indigenous people he encountered on his first voyage. In fine, they took all, and gave what they had with good will. It appeared to me to be a race of people very poor in everything. They go as naked as when their mothers bore them, and so do the women, although I did not see more than one young girl...They neither carry nor know anything of arms, for I showed them swords, and they took them by the blade and cut themselves through ignorance. They have no iron, their darts being wands without iron, some of them having a fish's tooth at the end, and others being pointed in various ways. They are all of fair stature and size, with good laces, and well made...They should be good servants and intelligent, for I observed that they quickly took in what was said to them, and I believe that they would easily be made Christians, as it appeared to me that they had no religion, our Lord being pleased, will take hence, at the time of my departure, six natives for your Highnesses that they may learn to speak...The Admiral showed the Indians some specimens of cinnamon and pepper he had brought from Castillo, and they knew it, and said, by signs, that there was plenty in the vicinity, pointing to the S.E. He also showed them gold and pearls, on which certain old men said that there an infinite quantity in a place called Holito and that the people wore it on their necks, ears, arms, and legs, as well as pearls. Question: Why did Columbus suggest that the Native Americans would make good Christians?

To show that they would be efficient workers

To encourage the Spanish to claim the islands

To make sure the Spanish did not attack them

To try to keep other European powers out of the islands

B. Columbus was offering reasons for the Spanish monarchy to claim the islands. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.

Explanation

B. Columbus was offering reasons for the Spanish monarchy to claim the islands. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.

31. Using natural resources today while preserving them for future generations is an example of ______.

Recycling

Conservation

Sustainability

Going “green”

C. Sustainability is making good use of resources to meet current needs while protecting future needs. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

Explanation

C. Sustainability is making good use of resources to meet current needs while protecting future needs. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

32. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt of a document discussing Europe in 1948. In considering the requirements for the rehabilitation of Europe the physical loss of life, the visible destruction of cities, factories, mines, and railroads was correctly estimated, but it has become obvious during recent months that this visible destruction was probably less serious than the dislocation of the entire fabric of European economy. For the past 10 years conditions have been highly abnormal. The feverish maintenance of the war effort engulfed all aspects of national economics. Machinery has fallen into disrepair or is entirely obsolete. Under the arbitrary and destructive Nazi rule, virtually every possible enterprise was geared into the German war machine. … The truth of the matter is that Europe's requirements for the next 3 or 4 years of foreign food and other essential products—principally from America—are so much greater than her present ability to pay that she must have substantial additional help, or face economic, social, and political deterioration of a very grave character. … Aside from the demoralizing effect on the world at large and the possibilities of disturbances arising as a result of the desperation of the people concerned, the consequences to the economy of the United States should be apparent to all. It is logical that the United States should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace. Our policy is directed not against any country or doctrine but against hunger, poverty, desperation, and chaos. Its purpose should be the revival of working economy in the world so as to permit the emergence of political and social conditions in which free institutions can exist. … Any government which maneuvers to block the recovery of other countries cannot expect help from us. Furthermore, governments, political parties, or groups which seek to perpetuate human misery in order to profit therefrom politically or otherwise will encounter the opposition of the United States. Question: When the document refers to "possibilities of disturbance," which of the following BEST explains what the authors are alluding to?

Creating a European Union

A return to Nazism in Germany

Embracing Japan as a world power

The possible rise of communism in Western Europe

D. The authors are concerned by the possibility that communism might be more appealing if the economy does not improve. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

Explanation

D. The authors are concerned by the possibility that communism might be more appealing if the economy does not improve. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

33. Real GDP controls for changes in ______.

Price

Population

Goods and services

Consumer preferences

A. Real GDP is the best measure of economic growth. It adjusts for inflation. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

Explanation

A. Real GDP is the best measure of economic growth. It adjusts for inflation. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

34. A company designs a smartphone with an extra-small screen. What should it do if the smartphone fails to sell?

Correct the problem that caused the failure

Look for new markets and new ways to trade

Direct resources away from extra-small screen production

Determine the cost of production to find a more appealing price

C. If consumers don’t buy a product, there is no market for it. As a result, the company should move resources to a different product. See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

Explanation

C. If consumers don’t buy a product, there is no market for it. As a result, the company should move resources to a different product. See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

35. Why is it profitable for discount stores to sell elastic goods at a low price?

They sell more.

Consumers want the best deals.

Supply and demand reach equilibrium.

Production increases, so store supply increases.

A. With elastic goods, if the price decreases, quantity demanded increases a lot. Therefore, dropping the price can bring stores much more business. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

Explanation

A. With elastic goods, if the price decreases, quantity demanded increases a lot. Therefore, dropping the price can bring stores much more business. See Lesson: Microeconomics.

36. How did the Agricultural Revolution change life in America?

The number of unemployed workers increased.

Urban centers like New York City decreased in size.

A decrease in population led to less demand for goods.

Americans began living in self-sustaining rural communities.

A. Because of advances in technology, fewer workers were needed to work on farms. This left a large number of people in the labor force unemployed. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

Explanation

A. Because of advances in technology, fewer workers were needed to work on farms. This left a large number of people in the labor force unemployed. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

37. Why were the 13 colonies established?

To supply raw materials

As a strategic location during war

As a midway point for further exploration

To act as a trading partner with European countries

A. The colonies were business ventures. Mercantilism, the economic policy of the time, was designed to make the mother country and its monarch rich. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

Explanation

A. The colonies were business ventures. Mercantilism, the economic policy of the time, was designed to make the mother country and its monarch rich. See Lesson: Economics Through History.

38. Which of the following is the BEST example of an enumerated power?

A responsibility assigned to the legislative branch

A leader who has been elected to office by citizens

A country that has become less powerful over time

A government whose power is limited by a constitution

A.The powers of Congress are outlined in the Constitution. Each power is explicitly explained. They are collectively known as the enumerated powers. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

Explanation

A.The powers of Congress are outlined in the Constitution. Each power is explicitly explained. They are collectively known as the enumerated powers. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

39. The following question is based on the passage below. This is an excerpt from the Emancipation Proclamation. "That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free… "That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid, by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in which the people thereof, respectively, shall then be in rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State, or the people thereof, shall on that day be, in good faith, represented in the Congress of the United States by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive evidence that such State, and the people thereof, are not then in rebellion against the United States." … And by virtue of the power, and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States, and parts of States, are, and henceforward shall be free; and that the Executive government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons. … And I further declare and make known, that such persons of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service." Question: What was the significance of the Emancipation Proclamation?

It banned the domestic slave trade.

It banned slavery in the Confederacy.

It banned slavery in pro-Union slaveholding states.

It committed to abolishing slavery once the war was over.

B. The Emancipation Proclamation only banned slavery in states that had seceded. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

Explanation

B. The Emancipation Proclamation only banned slavery in states that had seceded. See Lesson: Civil War Times.

40. Values that increase or decrease with inflation and deflation are called ______ values.

Real

Cyclical

Nominal

Consumption

C. Nominal values are monetary values that include changes in price and growth. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

Explanation

C. Nominal values are monetary values that include changes in price and growth. See Lesson: Macroeconomics.

41. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt of a document discussing Europe in 1948. In considering the requirements for the rehabilitation of Europe the physical loss of life, the visible destruction of cities, factories, mines, and railroads was correctly estimated, but it has become obvious during recent months that this visible destruction was probably less serious than the dislocation of the entire fabric of European economy. For the past 10 years conditions have been highly abnormal. The feverish maintenance of the war effort engulfed all aspects of national economics. Machinery has fallen into disrepair or is entirely obsolete. Under the arbitrary and destructive Nazi rule, virtually every possible enterprise was geared into the German war machine. … The truth of the matter is that Europe's requirements for the next 3 or 4 years of foreign food and other essential products—principally from America—are so much greater than her present ability to pay that she must have substantial additional help, or face economic, social, and political deterioration of a very grave character. … Aside from the demoralizing effect on the world at large and the possibilities of disturbances arising as a result of the desperation of the people concerned, the consequences to the economy of the United States should be apparent to all. It is logical that the United States should do whatever it is able to do to assist in the return of normal economic health in the world, without which there can be no political stability and no assured peace. Our policy is directed not against any country or doctrine but against hunger, poverty, desperation, and chaos. Its purpose should be the revival of working economy in the world so as to permit the emergence of political and social conditions in which free institutions can exist. … Any government which maneuvers to block the recovery of other countries cannot expect help from us. Furthermore, governments, political parties, or groups which seek to perpetuate human misery in order to profit therefrom politically or otherwise will encounter the opposition of the United States. Question: Which of the following policies would the authors of this document have supported?

Détente

The Marshall Plan

The Truman Doctrine

Mutually Assured Destruction

B. The Marshall Plan supported these policies. It provided financial support to struggling European governments. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

Explanation

B. The Marshall Plan supported these policies. It provided financial support to struggling European governments. See Lesson: The Twentieth Century and Beyond.

42. Which BEST defines federalism?

Federal officers training the leaders of state governments

Dividing power between a central government and smaller units

Splitting the power of the federal government into separate branches

Distributing power so that each branch of government monitors the others

B. Federalism is the idea that the power of a country should be divided between the central federal government and smaller units, for example, states. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

Explanation

B. Federalism is the idea that the power of a country should be divided between the central federal government and smaller units, for example, states. See Lesson: Types of Governments.

43. The following question is based on the passage below. It is an excerpt from the Northwest Ordinance, signed in 1787. "So soon as there shall be five thousand free male inhabitants of full age in the district, upon giving proof thereof to the governor, they shall receive authority, with time and place, to elect a representative from their counties or townships to represent them in the general assembly: Provided, That, for every five hundred free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative...Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three years; and, in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right, in fee simple, two hundred acres of land within the same; … And, for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which form the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions are erected; to fix and establish those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions, and governments, which forever hereafter shall be formed in the said territory: to provide also for the establishment of States, and permanent government therein, and for their admission to a share in the federal councils on an equal footing with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest: … Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged…" Question: What is the purpose of the second paragraph?

To eliminate slavery in the new territories

To establish standards for new state legislatures

To allow states to develop their own constitutions

To ensure that states followed the federal Constitution

D. The purpose is to ensure that territories would follow the basic principles of the U.S. Constitution. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

Explanation

D. The purpose is to ensure that territories would follow the basic principles of the U.S. Constitution. See Lesson: The American Revolution and the Growth of a Nation.

44. When individuals increase their personal wealth by creating goods and services that they offer for trade, they ______

Increase the wealth of others.

Ensure economic prosperity for trading partners.

Reduce the wealth of others by charging for their product.

Rely on the government to create a strong economic system.

A. By increasing their personal wealth, individuals increase the wealth of others. Adam Smith reasoned that the best economic benefit for all can usually be accomplished when individuals act in their own self-interest. See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

Explanation

A. By increasing their personal wealth, individuals increase the wealth of others. Adam Smith reasoned that the best economic benefit for all can usually be accomplished when individuals act in their own self-interest. See Lesson: The Fundamentals of Economics.

45. Which of the following is an enumerated power?

Impeaching a president

Declaring a law unconstitutional

Nominating Supreme Court justices

Signing treaties with other countries

A. Impeaching a president is an enumerated power of Congress. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

Explanation

A. Impeaching a president is an enumerated power of Congress. See Lesson: The Structure of the United States Government.

46. The following question is based on the passage below. The passage is an excerpt from Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points, his proposal for the peace system after World War I. "Absolute freedom of navigation upon the seas, outside territorial waters, alike in peace and in war, except as the seas may be closed in whole or in part by international action for the enforcement of international covenants. … A free, open-minded, and absolutely impartial adjustment of all colonial claims, based upon a strict observance of the principle that in determining all such questions of sovereignty the interests of the populations concerned must have equal weight with the equitable claims of the government whose title is to be determined. … A general association of nations must be formed under specific covenants for the purpose of affording mutual guarantees of political independence and territorial integrity to great and small states alike." Question: The appeal for free navigation of the seas was intended to resolve which dispute from the prewar period?

The colonization of Africa and Asia

The creation of an alliance system in Europe

The absence of the United States in global politics

The naval arms race between Germany and Great Britain

D. Allowing for free navigation of the seas was intended to prevent the shipbuilding races that dominated prewar politics. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

Explanation

D. Allowing for free navigation of the seas was intended to prevent the shipbuilding races that dominated prewar politics. See Lesson: Becoming a World Power.

47. The idea that government officials’ power over citizens should be limited is known as ______.

Federalism

Rule of law

Constitutionalism

Popular sovereignty

C. One way the Founders sought to limit government was by structuring the government in a certain way and explaining the structure in a constitution, or document. This method of limited government is called constitutionalism. See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

Explanation

C. One way the Founders sought to limit government was by structuring the government in a certain way and explaining the structure in a constitution, or document. This method of limited government is called constitutionalism. See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

48. If a government has the consent of the governed, it is said to have ______.

Federalism

Natural rights

Constitutionalism

Popular sovereignty

D. A major principle of the American government is popular sovereignty, the idea that the government is granted its power by the people being governed (also known as the consent of the governed). See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

Explanation

D. A major principle of the American government is popular sovereignty, the idea that the government is granted its power by the people being governed (also known as the consent of the governed). See Lesson: Principles of American Constitutional Democracy.

49. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a state?

A land with territory

An area with government

A land with political goals

A culturally defined group

B. Statehood has four elements: territory, population, government, and political goals. An independent country or state has all four elements. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

Explanation

B. Statehood has four elements: territory, population, government, and political goals. An independent country or state has all four elements. See Lesson: World Geography: Human/Environment Interaction.

50. The following question is based on the passage below. The following is an excerpt of Christopher Columbus's journal from 1492. In it, he describes the indigenous people he encountered on his first voyage. In fine, they took all, and gave what they had with good will. It appeared to me to be a race of people very poor in everything. They go as naked as when their mothers bore them, and so do the women, although I did not see more than one young girl...They neither carry nor know anything of arms, for I showed them swords, and they took them by the blade and cut themselves through ignorance. They have no iron, their darts being wands without iron, some of them having a fish's tooth at the end, and others being pointed in various ways. They are all of fair stature and size, with good laces, and well made...They should be good servants and intelligent, for I observed that they quickly took in what was said to them, and I believe that they would easily be made Christians, as it appeared to me that they had no religion, our Lord being pleased, will take hence, at the time of my departure, six natives for your Highnesses that they may learn to speak...The Admiral showed the Indians some specimens of cinnamon and pepper he had brought from Castillo, and they knew it, and said, by signs, that there was plenty in the vicinity, pointing to the S.E. He also showed them gold and pearls, on which certain old men said that there an infinite quantity in a place called Holito and that the people wore it on their necks, ears, arms, and legs, as well as pearls. Question: Which of the following explanations is the MOST LIKELY reason Columbus mentioned that the Native Americans knew little about fighting?

He wanted to protect them from hostile tribes.

He wanted to show they were no threat to Spain.

He wanted to teach them how to defend themselves.

He wanted to suggest that they would be easy to conquer.

A. Columbus’s goal was to encourage Spain to take the islands. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.

Explanation

A. Columbus’s goal was to encourage Spain to take the islands. See Lesson: The Earliest Americans and the Age of Exploration.