American Government 310l Test 1
- 1.
- According to Thomas Hobbes, life without government:
- A.
Would be nasty, brutish, and short.
- B.
Would be free of unnecessary intrusion.
- C.
Is unnecessary, given man’s inherent qualities.
- D.
Is a utopian ideal.
Correct Answer
A. Would be nasty, brutish, and short.Explanation
Thomas Hobbes believed that life without government would be chaotic and violent. He argued that without a governing authority to enforce laws and maintain order, people would constantly be in conflict with one another. In this state of nature, life would be characterized by fear, violence, and a constant struggle for survival. Hobbes famously described this condition as "nasty, brutish, and short." Therefore, the correct answer is that life without government would be nasty, brutish, and short.Rate this question:
- 2.
- The preamble of the U.S. Constitution:
- A.
Protects basic rights of Americans.
- B.
Defines the two central duties of national government.
- C.
Establishes the limits of government power.
- D.
Acknowledges life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as fundamental human rights.
Correct Answer
B. Defines the two central duties of national government.Explanation
The preamble of the U.S. Constitution does not define the two central duties of the national government. Instead, it serves as an introduction to the Constitution and outlines the goals and purposes of the government, such as establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty.Rate this question:
- 3.
- Checks and balances limits government power by ________________; separation of powers limits government power by _____________.
- A.
Dividing power across state and national government; giving distinct duties to each branch of government
- B.
dividing power between state and national government; giving each branch some power over the others
- C.
Dividing the government into three branches; giving each branch some power over the others
- D.
Giving each branch some power over the others; dividing the government into three branches
Correct Answer
D. Giving each branch some power over the others; dividing the government into three branchesExplanation
Checks and balances limits government power by giving each branch some power over the others. This ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and allows for a system of checks and balances to be in place. Separation of powers limits government power by dividing the government into three branches. Each branch has distinct duties and responsibilities, which helps to prevent the concentration of power in one branch.Rate this question:
- 4.
The president’s power to veto congressional legislation is an example of:
- A.
Separation of powers.
- B.
Checks and balances.
- C.
Federalism.
- D.
Factionalism
Correct Answer
B. Checks and balances.Explanation
The president's power to veto congressional legislation is an example of checks and balances. This is because the power of veto allows the president to check the power of the legislative branch by rejecting bills that have been passed by Congress. This ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful and that there is a system of checks and balances in place to prevent abuse of power.Rate this question:
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- 5.
According to Madison, factions arise out of
- A.
People’s self-interest.
- B.
People’s opposition to powerful government.
- C.
A desire to improve the public good.
- D.
People’s altruistic tendencies.
Correct Answer
A. People’s self-interest.Explanation
According to Madison, factions arise out of people's self-interest. This means that individuals form groups or factions based on their own personal interests or desires. These factions can be motivated by a desire for power, wealth, or other self-serving goals. Madison believed that factions were inevitable in a free society and that the key to managing them was through a system of checks and balances.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The Founders incorporated separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism into the structure of American government in order to:
- A.
Mimic the structure of English government.
- B.
Promote altruism.
- C.
Counter the effects of powerful factions.
- D.
Prevent class-based politics.
Correct Answer
C. Counter the effects of powerful factions.Explanation
The Founders incorporated separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism into the structure of American government in order to counter the effects of powerful factions. This was done to prevent any single group or interest from gaining too much power and potentially dominating the government. By dividing power among different branches and levels of government, it ensures that no one faction can easily control or manipulate the system. This helps to protect the rights and interests of all citizens and promotes a more balanced and representative democracy.Rate this question:
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- 7.
- Tyranny within American government is most effectively prevented by:
- A.
Competing political ideologies.
- B.
Citizens’ strong commitment to the free market and economic individualism.
- C.
A system of checks and balances.
- D.
The collective action problem.
Correct Answer
C. A system of checks and balances.Explanation
A system of checks and balances is the most effective way to prevent tyranny within American government because it ensures that no single branch of government has too much power. This system allows each branch to limit the powers of the other branches, creating a system of accountability and preventing any one branch from becoming too dominant. By having separate branches with different powers and responsibilities, it helps to maintain a balance of power and protect against any potential abuse of power by any one branch.Rate this question:
- 8.
- It is often necessary for government to provide public goods because:
- A.
Citizens are incapable of organizing efficient methods of distribution.
- B.
Public goods are often underproduced in a free market.
- C.
Only the government has the power to limit negative externalities.
- D.
According to several states’ laws, public goods must be funded by tax dollars.
Correct Answer
B. Public goods are often underproduced in a free market.Explanation
Public goods are often underproduced in a free market because of the free-rider problem. In a free market, individuals have an incentive to not pay for public goods because they can still benefit from them without contributing. This leads to underproduction of public goods because there is no profit motive for private firms to provide them. Therefore, it becomes necessary for the government to step in and provide public goods to ensure that they are adequately supplied for the benefit of society as a whole.Rate this question:
- 9.
- Collective action problems arise because each individual is ____________ off when _________ to cooperate and benefit from those who do work.
- A.
Better; refusing
- B.
Worse; refusing
- C.
Better; agreeing
- D.
Worse; agreeing
Correct Answer
A. Better; refusingExplanation
Collective action problems arise because each individual is better off when refusing to cooperate and benefit from those who do work. In a collective action problem, individuals have an incentive to free-ride and let others do the work while still reaping the benefits. By refusing to cooperate, individuals can avoid putting in effort and still enjoy the benefits of others' work, which ultimately makes them better off.Rate this question:
- 10.
- The size of the federal government is evidence that:
- A.
Politics is everywhere.
- B.
Politics is conflictual.
- C.
The political process matters.
- D.
The government is corrupt
Correct Answer
A. Politics is everywhere.Explanation
The size of the federal government being evidence that politics is everywhere can be explained by the fact that the federal government is responsible for making and implementing policies that affect various aspects of society. The size of the government reflects the extent to which politics permeates different sectors and areas of governance. It suggests that politics is not limited to a specific domain but rather influences and shapes various aspects of people's lives, indicating that politics is everywhere.Rate this question:
- 11.
Which of the following substantiates the fact that political process matters?
- A.
Government influences most aspects of daily life.
- B.
The political party in power has extensive control over the policies enacted.
- C.
People generally dislike political conflict.
- D.
Over 11 million people receive a paycheck from the federal government.
Correct Answer
B. The political party in power has extensive control over the policies enacted.Explanation
The fact that the political party in power has extensive control over the policies enacted substantiates the importance of the political process. This implies that the decisions made by the party in power can greatly impact the lives of individuals and the direction of the country. It highlights the significance of participating in the political process, such as voting and engaging in political activism, in order to influence the policies that are implemented.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following best characterizes the relationship between conflict and politics?
- A.
Conflict could be avoided without political parties.
- B.
Government would be better off without conflict.
- C.
Conflict in politics is a good thing.
- D.
Conflict in politics is inevitable.
Correct Answer
D. Conflict in politics is inevitable.Explanation
Conflict in politics is inevitable because politics involves the competition for power and resources, and different individuals or groups will have conflicting interests and goals. In a democratic society, where multiple parties and interest groups exist, conflict is a natural outcome as they compete for influence and control. Conflict can also lead to the generation of new ideas and solutions, as well as the negotiation and compromise necessary for effective governance. Therefore, conflict is an inherent and necessary part of the political process.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Americans have _________ interest in politics, most of us _____________ it every day.
- A.
Little; encounter
- B.
Significant; avoid
- C.
Little; avoid
- D.
Significant; encounter
Correct Answer
A. Little; encounterExplanation
The correct answer is "little; encounter". This means that Americans have little interest in politics and most of us avoid it every day. This suggests that politics is not a topic that is actively engaged with or sought after by the majority of Americans.Rate this question:
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- 14.
- The reason conflict is nearly always a part of politics is because
- A.
The media tries to create an artificially conflictual environment.
- B.
The easy issues get resolved and go away, the hard ones stay.
- C.
Members of Congress genuinely dislike each other.
- D.
The political parties disagree on everything.
Correct Answer
B. The easy issues get resolved and go away, the hard ones stay.Explanation
The reason conflict is nearly always a part of politics is because the easy issues get resolved and go away, while the hard ones stay. This suggests that politicians are more likely to engage in conflict and disagreement when dealing with complex and difficult problems that are not easily resolved. It implies that the nature of politics inherently involves grappling with challenging issues, leading to conflicts and disagreements among politicians.Rate this question:
- 15.
- An important implication of conflicts in politics is that
- A.
Compromise means abandoning principles.
- B.
Agreements never exist in the midst of controversies.
- C.
Congress never gets anything done.
- D.
Compromise and bargaining are essential to getting things done.
Correct Answer
D. Compromise and bargaining are essential to getting things done.Explanation
The correct answer suggests that in politics, compromise and bargaining are necessary in order to achieve progress or accomplish tasks. This implies that it is not possible to achieve success or make any progress without compromising on certain principles or engaging in negotiations with others. It highlights the importance of finding common ground and making concessions in order to reach agreements and move forward in the political arena.Rate this question:
- 16.
- Despite the importance of economic equality in defining our nation’s early history, socioeconomic classes have formed as a result of:
- A.
Americans’ rejection of government intervention in the economy.
- B.
The Founders’ inability to predict how the American economy would develop.
- C.
Slavery and its aftermath.
- D.
The difficulty in revising laws established by the Constitution.
Correct Answer
A. Americans’ rejection of government intervention in the economy.Explanation
The correct answer is Americans’ rejection of government intervention in the economy. This is because economic equality was not prioritized in the early history of the nation due to the belief in limited government intervention in the economy. This allowed for the formation of socioeconomic classes as wealth and power became concentrated in the hands of a few individuals and corporations, leading to inequality.Rate this question:
- 17.
- American economic interests tend to center on _________ and __________________.
- A.
Government regulation; economic individualism
- B.
The free market; economic individualism
- C.
The free market; economic mutualism
- D.
Government regulation; economic mutualism
Correct Answer
B. The free market; economic individualismExplanation
American economic interests tend to center on the free market and economic individualism. This means that Americans value a capitalist economic system where businesses operate with minimal government intervention and individuals have the freedom to pursue their own economic goals. They believe in the principles of competition, private property rights, and personal responsibility. This focus on the free market and economic individualism aligns with the traditional American values of individual liberty and limited government interference in the economy.Rate this question:
- 18.
- In the context of American politics, the term culture wars refers to:
- A.
Any conflict that occurs on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, or political ideology.
- B.
The conflicts that exist as a result of the inherent differences among people living in the North and the South.
- C.
The conflict among factions that form during each presidential election.
- D.
The conflict between religious and secular Americans.
Correct Answer
D. The conflict between religious and secular Americans.Explanation
The term "culture wars" in American politics refers to the conflict between religious and secular Americans. This refers to the ongoing debate and clashes between individuals and groups who hold religious beliefs and those who advocate for a separation of religion and government. It encompasses various issues such as abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, religious freedom, and the role of religion in public life. The term highlights the deep divisions and disagreements within American society on these cultural and social issues.Rate this question:
- 19.
- Democrats tend to favor _______________ tax policies and __________ restrictions on individual behavior.
- A.
Redistributive; few
- B.
Redistributive; more
- C.
Regressive; few
- D.
Regressive; more
Correct Answer
A. Redistributive; fewExplanation
Democrats tend to favor redistributive tax policies, which means they support policies that aim to redistribute wealth and income in society. This typically involves higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations in order to provide more benefits and support for lower-income individuals and families. Additionally, Democrats tend to support fewer restrictions on individual behavior, as they generally prioritize personal freedoms and individual rights.Rate this question:
- 20.
Which of the following policies would a Democrat most likely support?
- A.
An increase in benefits for welfare recipients
- B.
Making abortion illegal
- C.
Reducing business regulation
- D.
Cutting the marginal tax rate
Correct Answer
A. An increase in benefits for welfare recipientsExplanation
A Democrat is more likely to support an increase in benefits for welfare recipients because Democrats typically prioritize social welfare and believe in providing support to those in need. They often advocate for policies that aim to reduce inequality and provide assistance to disadvantaged individuals and families. Increasing benefits for welfare recipients aligns with these values and goals.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Americans tend to have ________ views on most issues.
- A.
Conservative
- B.
Moderate
- C.
Liberal
- D.
Apathetic
Correct Answer
B. ModerateExplanation
The correct answer is "moderate." This suggests that Americans typically hold views that are not extreme or on the far ends of the political spectrum. They are likely to have a mix of conservative and liberal views, but overall tend to be more moderate in their opinions.Rate this question:
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- 22.
- Which of the following was a provision of the Articles of Confederation?
- A.
It established a national supreme court.
- B.
Each a state had a single vote in Congress.
- C.
All thirteen states had to agree to pass legislation.
- D.
States shared authority to coin money with Congress.
Correct Answer
D. States shared authority to coin money with Congress.Explanation
The correct answer is "States shared authority to coin money with Congress." This provision of the Articles of Confederation allowed both the states and the central government to have the power to create and regulate currency. This shared authority was a key aspect of the Articles of Confederation, as it balanced the power between the states and the central government.Rate this question:
- 23.
- How did the Articles of Confederation specify that the executive be selected?
- A.
National popular election
- B.
Appointment by the Congress
- C.
Appointment by the judiciary
- D.
No executive leader was specified in the Articles of Confederation.
Correct Answer
D. No executive leader was specified in the Articles of Confederation.Explanation
The Articles of Confederation did not specify any executive leader. This means that there was no designated method for selecting or appointing an executive under the Articles of Confederation.Rate this question:
- 24.
- Which of the following is one of the reasons that American political leaders rejected the Articles of Confederation?
- A.
The states were unable to raise taxes.
- B.
New York state troops threatened to occupy Massachusetts territory.
- C.
Trade between the states was inefficient.
- D.
South Carolina threatened to form an alliance with Spain.
Correct Answer
C. Trade between the states was inefficient.Explanation
American political leaders rejected the Articles of Confederation because trade between the states was inefficient. This means that the states were facing difficulties in conducting trade with each other. This inefficiency would have hindered economic growth and development, as well as hindered the ability of the states to work together effectively. Therefore, this was one of the reasons why the political leaders rejected the Articles of Confederation.Rate this question:
- 25.
Which of the following did Thomas Paine’s Common Sense advocate?
- A.
Republicanism
- B.
Democracy
- C.
State confederation
- D.
Oligarchy
Correct Answer
A. RepublicanismExplanation
Thomas Paine's Common Sense advocated for republicanism. This political ideology promotes the idea of a representative government where the power lies with the people and their elected officials. It emphasizes the importance of individual rights and the consent of the governed. Paine argued for the establishment of a republic in the American colonies, advocating for independence from British rule and the creation of a government that would be accountable to the people.Rate this question:
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- 26.
- In Federalist 10, James Madison argued that the central goal of government is to:
- A.
Guarantee the rights of the majority.
- B.
Control factions.
- C.
Prevent foreign invasion.
- D.
Provide public goods.
Correct Answer
B. Control factions.Explanation
In Federalist 10, James Madison argued that the central goal of government is to control factions. Madison believed that factions, or groups of people with shared interests, could pose a threat to the stability and functioning of a democratic government. He argued that by controlling factions through a system of checks and balances and representative government, the government could prevent any one faction from gaining too much power and potentially oppressing the rights of others. This would help to maintain a balanced and fair political system.Rate this question:
- 27.
- How did the level of economic inequality in the United States during the creation of the Constitution compare with the levels of economic inequality in Europe?
- A.
There was more inequality in American than in Europe.
- B.
There was more inequality in Europe than in America.
- C.
Inequality in Europe and America was quite high.
- D.
Inequality in Europe and American was quite low.
Correct Answer
B. There was more inequality in Europe than in America.Explanation
During the creation of the Constitution, there was more economic inequality in Europe compared to the United States.Rate this question:
- 28.
- Which of the following ideals is the basis of pluralism?
- A.
Political man is concerned with collective interests, rather than self-interest.
- B.
Providing many groups access to government prevents authoritarianism.
- C.
Providing many groups access to government promotes authoritarianism.
- D.
Restricting civil liberties is necessary to produce stability and security.
Correct Answer
B. Providing many groups access to government prevents authoritarianism.Explanation
Pluralism is based on the idea that power should be dispersed among many different groups in society, rather than concentrated in the hands of a single authority. By providing many groups access to government, it prevents authoritarianism by ensuring that no single group or individual can dominate and control the decision-making process. This allows for a more inclusive and diverse representation of interests, promoting democratic values and preventing the abuse of power.Rate this question:
- 29.
- The Great Compromise was the compromise between the constitutional proposals of ________________.
- A.
Delaware and New York
- B.
New Jersey and New York
- C.
Pennsylvania and Rhode Island
- D.
New Jersey and Virginia
Correct Answer
D. New Jersey and VirginiaExplanation
The Great Compromise was a compromise between the constitutional proposals of New Jersey and Virginia. The New Jersey Plan, proposed by small states, called for equal representation for all states in the legislature. On the other hand, the Virginia Plan, proposed by large states, called for representation based on population. The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, created a bicameral legislature with equal representation in the Senate and representation based on population in the House of Representatives. This compromise satisfied both small and large states and played a crucial role in the formation of the United States Constitution.Rate this question:
- 30.
Which of the following is characteristic of the Parliamentary system?
- A.
Strong, independent executive
- B.
Chief executive chosen by the electorate
- C.
Chief executive chosen by the legislature
- D.
Weak legislative branch
Correct Answer
C. Chief executive chosen by the legislatureExplanation
The characteristic of the Parliamentary system is that the chief executive is chosen by the legislature. In this system, the head of government, such as the Prime Minister, is selected from the majority party or coalition in the legislative body. This ensures that the executive is accountable to the legislature and can be easily removed from office if they lose the support of the majority. This is different from systems where the chief executive is chosen directly by the electorate, such as in a presidential system.Rate this question:
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- 31.
- The outcome of the Three-Fifths Compromise was that slaves would _________________ and ____________________.
- A.
Each get three-fifths of a vote; each count as three-fifths of a person for taxation
- B.
Each count as three-fifths of a person for taxation; each count as three-fifths of a person for the census
- C.
Each get three-fifths of a vote; each count as three-fifths of a person for the census
- D.
Each receive three-fifths the amount of social services that nonslaves got; each get three-fifths of a vote
Correct Answer
B. Each count as three-fifths of a person for taxation; each count as three-fifths of a person for the censusExplanation
The outcome of the Three-Fifths Compromise was that slaves would be counted as three-fifths of a person for taxation and also for the census.Rate this question:
- 32.
- Which of the following was not one of the central tensions at the Constitutional Convention?
- A.
Free trade versus domestic protectionism
- B.
Legislative power versus executive power
- C.
Majority rule versus minority rights
- D.
National power versus states’ rights
Correct Answer
A. Free trade versus domestic protectionismExplanation
The question asks for a tension that was not present at the Constitutional Convention. The Constitutional Convention was primarily focused on creating a framework for the new government, and the tensions that arose during the convention were related to issues such as legislative power versus executive power, majority rule versus minority rights, and national power versus states' rights. However, there is no historical evidence or record of any significant debate or tension regarding free trade versus domestic protectionism during the Constitutional Convention.Rate this question:
- 33.
- During the constitutional deliberations, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote eighty-five essays to sway public opinion. Collectively, these eighty-five essays are known as _____________.
- A.
The Antifederalist Papers
- B.
Common Sense
- C.
The Federalist Papers
- D.
The Pluralist Papers
Correct Answer
C. The Federalist PapersExplanation
During the constitutional deliberations, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote eighty-five essays to sway public opinion. These essays were collectively known as the Federalist Papers.Rate this question:
- 34.
- The ____________________ felt that the Constitution should not specifically enumerate protected civil liberties.
- A.
Pluralists
- B.
Federalists
- C.
Populists
- D.
Antifederalists
Correct Answer
B. FederalistsExplanation
The Federalists believed that the Constitution should not specifically list protected civil liberties because they believed that doing so would limit the rights of the people. They argued that by not explicitly stating the rights, it would allow for flexibility and interpretation over time as society evolved. They believed that the government should have the power to protect individual rights without being constrained by a specific list of rights.Rate this question:
- 35.
- The Bill of Rights was included in the Constitution to assuage the fears of the __________________.
- A.
Big states
- B.
Small states
- C.
Antifederalists
- D.
Federalists
Correct Answer
C. AntifederalistsExplanation
The Bill of Rights was included in the Constitution to assuage the fears of the Antifederalists. The Antifederalists were concerned that the Constitution did not provide enough protection for individual rights and liberties. They feared that a strong central government could potentially infringe upon these rights. By including the Bill of Rights, which guaranteed specific rights and freedoms, the Antifederalists' concerns were addressed and helped to alleviate their fears.Rate this question:
- 36.
15. Which branch of government is often considered the “First Branch”?
- A.
The presidency
- B.
The Congress
- C.
The courts
- D.
The bureaucracy
Correct Answer
B. The CongressExplanation
The branch of government that is often considered the "First Branch" is the Congress. This is because the Congress, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is responsible for making laws and representing the interests of the people. It is the legislative branch of government and plays a crucial role in the democratic process. The presidency, the courts, and the bureaucracy are all important branches of government, but the Congress is often referred to as the "First Branch" due to its central role in the functioning of the government.Rate this question:
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- 37.
16. Which of the following is not among Congress’s exclusive powers?
- A.
The right to regulate commerce
- B.
The right to declare war
- C.
The right to establish a post office
- D.
The right to nominate judges
Correct Answer
D. The right to nominate judgesExplanation
The correct answer is "the right to nominate judges." This is not among Congress's exclusive powers because the Constitution grants the President the power to nominate judges. The President's nominations are then subject to confirmation by the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 38.
17. What is the name of the clause that gives Congress the “power to pass any law that is related to one of its expressed powers”?
- A.
Establishment clause
- B.
National supremacy clause
- C.
Congressional powers clause
- D.
Necessary and proper clause
Correct Answer
D. Necessary and proper clauseExplanation
The necessary and proper clause, also known as the elastic clause, gives Congress the power to pass any law that is related to one of its expressed powers. This clause is found in Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United States Constitution. It allows Congress to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its other powers, even if those powers are not explicitly stated in the Constitution. This clause has been interpreted broadly by the Supreme Court, giving Congress a wide range of authority to legislate on various issues.Rate this question:
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- 39.
- Which branch of government has “neither the power of the purse nor the sword?”
- A.
The courts
- B.
The bureaucracy
- C.
The presidency
- D.
The Congress
Correct Answer
A. The courtsExplanation
The courts have "neither the power of the purse nor the sword" because they do not have the authority to control government spending or to enforce laws through the use of force. The power of the purse refers to the ability to allocate funds and make financial decisions, which is primarily held by the Congress. The power of the sword refers to the ability to enforce laws and maintain order, which is primarily held by the executive branch, specifically the presidency. The courts, on the other hand, have the power to interpret laws and settle disputes, but they do not have the power to make or enforce laws.Rate this question:
- 40.
19. How many times has Congress formally declared war?
- A.
Twice
- B.
Four times
- C.
Five times
- D.
Twelve times
Correct Answer
C. Five timesExplanation
Congress has formally declared war five times in US history. This power is granted to Congress by the Constitution. The five times that Congress has declared war include the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II. These declarations of war were significant moments in US history and marked the country's official entry into major conflicts.Rate this question:
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- 41.
20. Impeachment allows Congress to remove the president for _______________________.
- A.
A politically unpopular action
- B.
Marital infidelity
- C.
Vetoing popular legislation
- D.
abuses of power
Correct Answer
D. abuses of powerExplanation
Impeachment allows Congress to remove the president for abuses of power. This means that if the president is found to have misused their authority, violated the law, or engaged in any other form of misconduct while in office, Congress has the power to initiate impeachment proceedings and potentially remove them from office. This serves as a check on the president's power and ensures accountability for any wrongdoing.Rate this question:
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- 42.
21. Congress’s power of the purse __________ be used to punish executive agencies, and/but _______ be used to punish the federal judiciary.
- A.
Can; can
- B.
Cannot; can
- C.
Can; cannot
- D.
Cannot; cannot
Correct Answer
A. Can; canExplanation
Congress has the power of the purse, which means it has control over the government's spending. This power can be used to punish executive agencies by cutting their funding or imposing budget restrictions. Similarly, Congress can also use its power of the purse to punish the federal judiciary by reducing their budget or limiting their funding. Therefore, both executive agencies and the federal judiciary can be subject to Congress's power of the purse.Rate this question:
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- 43.
22. The president ______ have a check on Congress, and/but ________ have a check on the courts.
- A.
Does; does
- B.
Does not; does
- C.
Does; does not
- D.
Does not; does not
Correct Answer
C. Does; does notExplanation
The president does have a check on Congress, meaning that the president has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress. However, the president does not have a check on the courts, meaning that the president does not have the power to directly control or influence the decisions made by the judicial branch.Rate this question:
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- 44.
23. Judicial review was asserted by the Court in _____________.
- A.
McCullough v. Maryland
- B.
Marbury v. Madison
- C.
Barron v. Baltimore
- D.
Priestman v. United States
Correct Answer
B. Marbury v. MadisonExplanation
In Marbury v. Madison, the Supreme Court established the power of judicial review. This means that the Court has the authority to review and interpret the Constitution, and to declare laws and actions of the government unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution. This landmark case solidified the Court's role as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution and set the precedent for future cases involving judicial review.Rate this question:
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- 45.
- The Constitution ___________ provide the Supreme Court with a check on the president and/but _______________ provide the Supreme Court with a check on Congress.
- A.
Does; does
- B.
Does not; does
- C.
Does; does not
- D.
Does not; does not
Correct Answer
D. Does not; does notExplanation
The Constitution does not provide the Supreme Court with a check on the president and it also does not provide the Supreme Court with a check on Congress.Rate this question:
- 46.
25. The Twenty-First Amendment, which repealed the prohibition of alcohol, was unique in how it was ratified. Which of the following was the ratification process for it?
- A.
Ratified by state convention
- B.
Ratified by state legislature
- C.
Ratified by public referenda
- D.
Ratified by unanimous congressional approval
Correct Answer
A. Ratified by state conventionExplanation
The correct answer is "ratified by state convention." The Twenty-First Amendment was unique in that it was the only amendment to be ratified by state conventions rather than by state legislatures or public referenda. This process involved each state holding a special convention where delegates were elected by the people to vote on whether to ratify the amendment. This method was chosen in order to bypass potential opposition from state legislatures, as the repeal of prohibition was a controversial issue at the time.Rate this question:
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- 47.
26. What does Article V of the Constitution detail?
- A.
The process of conducting national elections
- B.
The process of establishing political parties
- C.
The process of amending the Constitution
- D.
The process of selecting Supreme Court justices
Correct Answer
C. The process of amending the ConstitutionExplanation
Article V of the Constitution details the process of amending the Constitution. This process involves proposing amendments by either Congress or a national convention, followed by ratification by the states. It outlines the two methods for proposing amendments and the two methods for ratifying them, providing a clear procedure for making changes to the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 48.
27. Which of the following is not an example of how implied powers have been interpreted?
- A.
The Supreme Court’s ruling that Congress could create a bank
- B.
Congress’s levying a national tax to support the Marine Corps in the battle against the Barbary pirates
- C.
The president’s unilaterally setting national foreign policy
- D.
Congress’s removal of appointed officials from the president’s Cabinet
Correct Answer
B. Congress’s levying a national tax to support the Marine Corps in the battle against the Barbary piratesExplanation
The correct answer is "Congress’s levying a national tax to support the Marine Corps in the battle against the Barbary pirates." This is not an example of how implied powers have been interpreted because the power to levy taxes is an express power granted to Congress in the Constitution, not an implied power.Rate this question:
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- 49.
28. Which of the following options is not a reason that the Constitution is considered a “living document”?
- A.
Some parts are ignored.
- B.
The Constitution can be amended.
- C.
Central passages are ambiguous.
- D.
Explicit details allow only one interpretation of its meaning.
Correct Answer
D. Explicit details allow only one interpretation of its meaning.Explanation
The correct answer is "Explicit details allow only one interpretation of its meaning." This is because a "living document" refers to a constitution that is open to interpretation and can adapt to changing societal norms and values. The fact that explicit details allow only one interpretation goes against the idea of a living document, as it suggests a fixed and unchanging interpretation of the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 50.
- The form of government that best describes the American system while under the Articles of Confederation is _______________.
- A.
Confederal
- B.
Federal
- C.
Unitary
- D.
Byzantine
Correct Answer
A. ConfederalExplanation
The correct answer is "confederal." The Articles of Confederation established a confederal form of government in which power was primarily held by the individual states rather than a strong central government. Under this system, the central government had limited authority and relied on the states for most decisions and policies.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Feb 06, 2014Quiz Created by
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