1.
What year did Illinois become a state?
Correct Answer
A. 1818
Explanation
Illinois became a state in 1818. This is the correct answer because Illinois was admitted into the Union as the 21st state on December 3, 1818.
2.
Who is our current Illinois governor?
Correct Answer
D. J. B. Pritzker
Explanation
J. B. Pritzker is the correct answer because he is the current governor of Illinois. This can be confirmed by checking the most recent information and news sources regarding the governorship of Illinois.
3.
How many representatives are there in the Illinois House of Representatives?
Correct Answer
B. 118
Explanation
The correct answer is 118 because the Illinois House of Representatives is composed of 118 members. Each member represents a specific district within the state, and together they form the legislative body responsible for making and passing laws in Illinois.
4.
How many members are there in the Illinois state Senate?
Correct Answer
D. 59
Explanation
The correct answer is 59. The Illinois state Senate has a total of 59 members.
5.
Who is the chief legal officer of the state of Illinois?
Correct Answer
D. Attorney General
Explanation
The chief legal officer of the state of Illinois is the Attorney General. This individual is responsible for representing the state in legal matters, providing legal advice to state agencies and officials, and enforcing state laws. The Attorney General plays a crucial role in upholding justice and protecting the rights of the people of Illinois.
6.
What is the name of the state legislature in Springfield?
Correct Answer
C. General Assembly
Explanation
The correct answer is General Assembly. The General Assembly is the name of the state legislature in Springfield. This term is commonly used in many states to refer to the legislative body that is responsible for making laws and governing the state. The other options listed, such as Congress, Town hall, and House of Burgesses, do not accurately describe the state legislature in Springfield.
7.
What year was our current Illinois Constitution written?
Correct Answer
D. 1970
Explanation
The current Illinois Constitution was written in 1970. This means that the constitution in place in Illinois was established in that year and serves as the governing document for the state.
8.
If the governor dies, who is next in the line of succession to take over?
Correct Answer
A. Lt. Governor
Explanation
If the governor dies, the next person in line to take over is the Lt. Governor. The Lt. Governor is typically elected alongside the governor and serves as the second-highest executive official in the state. In the event of the governor's death, resignation, or removal from office, the Lt. Governor assumes the role of governor and fulfills the duties and responsibilities associated with the position. This ensures continuity of leadership and governance in the state.
9.
What fraction of the General Assembly does it take to override a veto of the governor and what fraction does it take to propose an amendment to the Illinois Constitution?
Correct Answer
D. 3/5
Explanation
To override a veto of the governor, it takes 3/5 of the General Assembly. This means that a significant majority is required to overturn the governor's decision. On the other hand, to propose an amendment to the Illinois Constitution, it takes 3/5 of the General Assembly as well. This ensures that any proposed changes to the constitution have strong support from the legislative body.
10.
How often does the Illinois State legislature have to "officially meet"?
Correct Answer
B. One time a year
Explanation
The Illinois State legislature has to "officially meet" once a year. This means that the legislature is required to convene and hold a formal session at least once every year. This ensures that the legislature fulfills its responsibilities and carries out its duties to govern the state. By meeting once a year, the legislature can address important issues, pass legislation, and make decisions that impact the state and its residents.
11.
To pass a bill in the Illinois State legislature, which of the following is NOT true?
Correct Answer
D. The governor only gets 10 days to examine a bill
Explanation
the governor gets 60 days to examine a bil
12.
Twenty-one years old, a resident of your district for two years and being a US citizen were the qualifications for what position in Illinois government?
Correct Answer
B. State legislator (House or Senate)
Explanation
The qualifications mentioned in the question, specifically being twenty-one years old, a resident of the district for two years, and being a US citizen, align with the requirements for becoming a state legislator in Illinois. These qualifications are necessary for individuals to be eligible to run for and hold a position in the Illinois House or Senate. Therefore, the correct answer is State legislator (House or Senate).
13.
What is the current population of the state of Illinois?
Correct Answer
C. 12,500,000 people
Explanation
The correct answer is 12,500,000 people. This is the most reasonable estimate for the current population of the state of Illinois. It is a large number that is more consistent with a state population rather than a city or town population. Additionally, it falls within a typical range for state populations in the United States.
14.
Where in the Illinois Constitution is the Illinois Bill of Rights located?
Correct Answer
A. Article I
Explanation
The Illinois Bill of Rights is located in Article I of the Illinois Constitution. This article outlines the fundamental rights and protections afforded to the citizens of Illinois, including freedom of speech, religion, and due process. It is the first article in the constitution and serves as a foundational document for the state's legal framework.
15.
What is the name of the legislative branch in the state of Illinois, which is responsible for making and passing laws?
Correct Answer
D. General Assembly
Explanation
The correct answer is D. The legislative branch in the state of Illinois is known as the "General Assembly." It is a bicameral legislature consisting of the Illinois House of Representatives and the Illinois State Senate. Together, they are responsible for making and passing laws at the state level.
16.
The first European Country to Settle in Illinois is....?
Correct Answer
A. France
Explanation
France is the correct answer because it was the first European country to settle in Illinois. In the 17th century, French explorers and traders established settlements in the region, including Fort Crevecoeur and Fort St. Louis. These early French settlements played a significant role in the history and development of Illinois as a French territory before it became part of the United States.
17.
Which of the following has not ever been a capital of Illinois?
Correct Answer
A. Chicago
Explanation
Chicago has never been a capital of Illinois. The capital of Illinois has been Vandalia, Kaskaskia, and currently Springfield.
18.
Which of the following is NOT a veto power that the Illinois governor has?
Correct Answer
B. Pocket veto
Explanation
remember that the governor gets to examine bills for 60 days
19.
How many judicial (appellate) districts are there in the state of Illinois?
Correct Answer
C. 5
Explanation
Illinois has 5 judicial (appellate) districts. These districts are responsible for handling appeals from the circuit courts in their respective areas. Each district has its own appellate court, which reviews the decisions made by the lower courts. Having multiple districts allows for a more efficient and accessible judicial system, as it allows cases to be heard and decided upon closer to where they originate.
20.
Which of the following state executive officers is NOT up for election at the same time as the governor?
Correct Answer
E. Superintendent of Schools
Explanation
The Superintendent of Schools is not up for election at the same time as the governor. While the other state executive officers mentioned (Treasurer, Secretary of State, Comptroller, and Attorney General) are typically elected at the same time as the governor, the Superintendent of Schools is often elected separately or appointed by a school board or other governing body.
21.
What is the main trial court at the STATE level?
Correct Answer
B. Circuit court
Explanation
The circuit court is the main trial court at the state level. It is responsible for hearing a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, and family law matters. The circuit court is often divided into different divisions, such as criminal, civil, and juvenile divisions, to handle specific types of cases. This court is where trials take place, evidence is presented, and decisions are made by a judge or jury. Appeals from the circuit court are usually heard by the appellate court, not the supreme court.
22.
Which of the following is NOT a qualification for the Governor?
Correct Answer
D. Male
Explanation
The question asks for the option that is NOT a qualification for the Governor. The other three options, being 25 years old, a US citizen, and a 3-year resident of the state of Illinois, are all qualifications for the Governor. However, being male is not a qualification, as both males and females can hold the position of Governor.
23.
The official records and the great seal of the state of Illinois are kept by what official?
Correct Answer
B. Secretary of State
Explanation
The correct answer is Secretary of State. In the state of Illinois, the official records and the great seal are maintained by the Secretary of State. This official is responsible for a wide range of duties, including overseeing elections, maintaining state records, and handling official documents. They play a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning of the state government and preserving important historical records.
24.
Which of the following is NOT a duty of the governor?
Correct Answer
D. Handle foreign affairs
Explanation
The governor's duties include vetoing laws, serving as the commander in chief of the state guard, pardoning individuals, and calling special sessions of the General Assembly. However, handling foreign affairs is not a duty of the governor. This responsibility typically falls under the jurisdiction of the federal government and is carried out by the president and the Department of State.
25.
Which branch of Illinois government is accurately associated?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because each option accurately describes a branch of the Illinois government. The General Assembly is indeed the legislative branch responsible for making laws, the Governor represents the executive branch that enforces these laws, and the Illinois courts serve as the judicial branch that interprets the laws. Therefore, all three options are associated with their respective branches of the Illinois government.
26.
What is the special status that is given to cities so that they can make their own rules without going through the General Assembly for approval?
Correct Answer
B. Home rule
Explanation
Home rule is the special status given to cities that allows them to make their own rules without seeking approval from the General Assembly. This means that cities have the power to govern themselves and create their own local laws and regulations. Home rule gives cities more autonomy and the ability to address their unique needs and challenges without having to rely on the approval of higher levels of government.
27.
What form of city government involved a mayor and city council that make the decisions for the city, but hire a professionally trained manager to carry out those decisions?
Correct Answer
B. Council manager form
Explanation
The council manager form of city government involves a mayor and city council who are responsible for making decisions for the city. However, instead of directly carrying out those decisions themselves, they hire a professionally trained manager to implement and execute them. This form aims to separate the political decision-making process from the day-to-day administration of the city, allowing for more efficient and professional management.
28.
Which of the following statements about the Illinois Constitution is true?
Correct Answer
C. The current Illinois Constitution was adopted in 1970.
Explanation
The Illinois Constitution in use today was adopted in 1970, reflecting the state's fourth constitution since its admission to the Union in 1818. This revision was aimed at addressing various political, social, and economic changes and needs that had emerged over time.
29.
The Illinois Constitution requires that every __________ years a call for a Constitutional Convention be put to the people.
Correct Answer
C. 20
Explanation
The Illinois Constitution mandates that a call for a Constitutional Convention must be presented to the people every 20 years. This means that every two decades, the citizens of Illinois have the opportunity to gather and discuss potential changes or updates to their state constitution. This requirement ensures that the constitution remains a living document that can adapt to the evolving needs and values of the people of Illinois.
30.
Which of the following would NOT be considered a municipality?
Correct Answer
D. County
Explanation
A county would not be considered a municipality because it is a larger administrative division that encompasses multiple towns, villages, and cities. Municipalities are typically smaller, local government units that have their own governing bodies and provide services to a specific geographic area. Counties, on the other hand, are responsible for overseeing a broader region and may include multiple municipalities within their boundaries.
31.
What chamber of the General assembly does the "impeaching" or accusing?
Correct Answer
A. House
Explanation
In the United States, the process of impeaching or accusing a government official is carried out by the House of Representatives. The House has the power to initiate impeachment proceedings by bringing charges against the accused official. Once the House votes to impeach, the case is then sent to the Senate for trial. Therefore, the correct answer is House.
32.
What form of city government has an elected mayor and four elected commissioners that divide up the work of the city?
Correct Answer
B. Commission
Explanation
A form of city government that has an elected mayor and four elected commissioners that divide up the work of the city is called a commission form of government. In this system, the mayor and commissioners work together to make decisions and govern the city. Each commissioner is responsible for a specific area or department of the city, such as finance, public safety, or public works. This form of government allows for a division of labor and shared responsibility among the elected officials.
33.
The election in which a party chooses its nominee is called ______.
Correct Answer
A. A primary
Explanation
A primary is the election in which a party chooses its nominee. It is the process by which members of a political party, or voters in general, select a candidate to run for public office. During a primary, party members or voters cast their votes to determine the candidate who will represent the party in the general election. This is an important step in the democratic process as it allows party members to have a say in selecting their preferred candidate to represent their party's values and policies.
34.
Which of the following is NOT protected by the Illinois Bill of Rights?
Correct Answer
E. Freedom from/exclusion from national military service
Explanation
The Illinois Bill of Rights protects various rights and liberties of its citizens. Freedom from/exclusion from national military service is not explicitly mentioned in the list of protected rights. While the Bill of Rights guarantees freedom of speech, right to a fair trial, freedom from self-incrimination, and right to bear arms, it does not specifically mention freedom from or exclusion from national military service. Therefore, the correct answer is Freedom from/exclusion from national military service.