Political Science - American Federal Gov't Quiz 1

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1. What year was Leviathan published?

Explanation

Leviathan was published in 1651.

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About This Quiz
American Government Quizzes & Trivia

This quiz explores foundational concepts of American Federal Government, including types of government, state of nature, and historical insights like the publication year of Leviathan. It assesses understanding of political structures and their implications.

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2. What is the state of nature?

Explanation

Anarchy (Absence of Government)

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3. Who said the right to:1. Life2. Liberty3. Property

Explanation

John Locke is the correct answer because he is a famous philosopher who proposed the concept of natural rights, including the rights to life, liberty, and property. Locke believed that these rights are inherent to all individuals and should be protected by governments. His ideas had a significant influence on the development of modern democratic societies and the concept of individual rights.

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4. Who created the Two Treatises of Government?

Explanation

John Locke is the creator of the Two Treatises of Government. This influential work was published in 1690 and is considered a cornerstone of modern political philosophy. In it, Locke argues for the concept of natural rights, including life, liberty, and property, and emphasizes the importance of consent and limited government. The Two Treatises of Government had a significant impact on the development of democratic ideals and the formation of constitutional governments around the world.

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5. When was the Declaration of Independence?

Explanation

The correct answer is July 4, 1776. This date is widely recognized as the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress. It marked the formal separation of the American colonies from Great Britain and the beginning of the American Revolution. The Declaration of Independence is a significant document in American history, as it outlined the principles of liberty and equality that the new nation would be built upon.

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6. Rule by a government where all citizens are represented, but power is held by the majority.

Explanation

Democracy- "rule by the governed"

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7. What year was the Two Treatises of Government first published?

Explanation

The Two Treatises of Government was first published in 1689.

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8. Rule by a religious elite.

Explanation

Theocracy is the correct answer because it refers to a form of government where religious leaders hold the ultimate authority and power. In a theocratic system, religious laws and principles guide the governance and decision-making processes. This type of rule is characterized by a close intertwining of religion and politics, with religious leaders often holding top positions of power. Unlike democracy, where power is held by the people, or authoritarian and autocratic systems where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group, theocracy is unique in its emphasis on religious authority as the basis for governance.

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9. For the purposes of the apportionment of congress seats, every slave was partially counted... what compromise was this called?

Explanation

The correct answer is 3/5ths Compromise. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and it determined that each slave would be counted as three-fifths of a person for the purpose of apportioning seats in the House of Representatives. This compromise was a result of the disagreement between the Northern and Southern states regarding the representation of slaves in Congress. The Southern states wanted slaves to be fully counted to increase their political power, while the Northern states argued that slaves should not be counted at all. The 3/5ths Compromise was a compromise solution that satisfied both sides to some extent.

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10. Rule by an individual who has inherited the role and expects to bequeath it to their heir.

Explanation

A monarchy is a form of government where power is held by a single individual who has inherited the role and expects to pass it on to their heir. This individual, known as the monarch, usually holds the position for life and has absolute authority over the government and the people. In a monarchy, the monarch's power is not limited by a constitution or other governing body, making it an authoritarian form of government.

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11. Rule by a small group of people who share similar interests or relations.

Explanation

Oligarchy - "rule by the few"

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12. Which plan created a congress based on state size (pop.) and was pushed by Madison?

Explanation

The Virginia Plan was a proposal put forward by James Madison during the Constitutional Convention. It called for a bicameral legislature, with representation in both houses based on state population. This plan favored larger states, as they would have more representatives and therefore more influence in the government. The Virginia Plan was eventually modified and combined with the New Jersey Plan to create the Great Compromise, which established a bicameral legislature with one house based on population and the other based on equal representation for each state. The Mayflower Compact, on the other hand, was an agreement among the Pilgrims on how to govern themselves and is unrelated to the creation of a congress based on state size.

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13. When was the Articles of Confederation Adopted?

Explanation

The correct answer is November 15, 1777. The Articles of Confederation were adopted on this date. The Articles of Confederation was the first constitution of the United States, serving as the governing document from 1781 until the ratification of the current Constitution in 1788. It established a weak central government with limited powers and gave most of the authority to the individual states. The Articles of Confederation were eventually replaced due to their ineffectiveness in governing the young nation.

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14. Article VII in the Constitution is about the ....

Explanation

Article VII in the Constitution is about the ratification of the Constitution itself. It outlines the process by which the Constitution would become effective and legally binding. This article specifies that the Constitution would only become valid after it is ratified by conventions in at least nine of the thirteen states. The inclusion of this article was crucial in ensuring that the Constitution would have the necessary support and legitimacy from the states before it could take effect.

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15. In what year was the Sugar Act imposed?

Explanation

The Sugar Act was imposed in 1765. This act was passed by the British Parliament and it aimed to reduce smuggling and increase revenue from the American colonies. The act imposed taxes on imported goods, including sugar, molasses, and other products. It was one of the measures that eventually led to the American Revolution, as it was seen as a violation of the colonists' rights and sparked protests and boycotts.

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16. What plan was proposed, because the people didn't believe the first plan was fair to the smaller states?

Explanation

The New Jersey Plan was proposed as an alternative because the people believed that the first plan was not fair to the smaller states. This plan called for equal representation for all states, regardless of their size or population. It aimed to protect the interests and rights of smaller states by giving them an equal voice in the legislative branch of government. This plan was in contrast to the Virginia Plan, which proposed a bicameral legislature with representation based on population size. The New Jersey Plan was eventually incorporated into the Great Compromise, which established a compromise between the Virginia and New Jersey Plans.

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17. The Constitution needed to be adopted by ________ of the 13 states.

Explanation

The Constitution needed to be adopted by 9 out of the 13 states because the framers of the Constitution wanted to ensure that it had the support of a majority of states before it could be ratified and put into effect. This requirement was included to ensure that the Constitution would have widespread acceptance and legitimacy among the states.

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18. Second Continental Congress discussed to declare independence during what time?

Explanation

This lasted six years.

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19. Article II is about?

Explanation

Article II of the United States Constitution establishes the executive branch of the government. It outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States, including their role as the commander-in-chief of the military, their ability to make treaties and appointments, and their duty to faithfully execute the laws of the land. Therefore, the correct answer is Executive Power.

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20. What proposed a bicameral legislature where they had a house by population and a senate by equal representation?

Explanation

The Great Compromise proposed a bicameral legislature where they had a house by population and a senate by equal representation. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 in the United States. It aimed to address the issue of representation in the legislative branch, with the larger states favoring representation based on population and the smaller states advocating for equal representation. The compromise resulted in the creation of the House of Representatives, where representation is based on population, and the Senate, where each state is represented equally with two senators.

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21. Article III covers?

Explanation

Article III of the Constitution covers the Judicial Power. This article establishes the Supreme Court as the highest court in the United States and gives Congress the power to create lower federal courts. It outlines the jurisdiction of the federal courts and defines the types of cases that they can hear. It also guarantees certain rights to individuals, such as the right to a trial by jury and protection against double jeopardy. Overall, Article III establishes the structure and authority of the judicial branch of the federal government.

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22. Which Article went over the multiple roles and duties of the president and vice president as well as the election and qualifications?

Explanation

Article II of the United States Constitution outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States. It covers various aspects such as the qualifications for the presidency, the process of election, and the duties and powers of the president. This article also discusses the role of the vice president and their responsibilities. Therefore, Article II is the correct answer as it specifically addresses the roles and duties of the president and vice president, as well as the election and qualifications.

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23. Which article created the supreme court?

Explanation

Article III of the United States Constitution created the Supreme Court. This article establishes the judicial branch of the government and outlines the powers and jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. It grants the Court the authority to interpret laws, resolve disputes, and ensure the constitutionality of legislation. The creation of the Supreme Court under Article III was a crucial step in establishing the system of checks and balances in the United States government.

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24. In the Constitution, Articles 1-7 creates a system founded upon __________?

Explanation

Founded upon separation of powers(checks and balances) and federalism.

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25. What kind of government does the United States have?

Explanation

The United States has a democratic republic government because it is a system where the power is vested in the people, who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. In a democratic republic, the citizens have the right to vote and participate in the political process, and the elected representatives are responsible for making laws and governing the country. This system combines elements of both democracy and a republic, ensuring that the government is accountable to the people while also protecting individual rights and liberties.

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26. What is Article I about?

Explanation

Article I of the United States Constitution is about the Legislative Power. This article establishes the structure, powers, and limitations of the legislative branch of the federal government, which consists of the Congress. It outlines the composition and election process of the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as the powers granted to Congress, such as the ability to make laws, levy taxes, and regulate commerce. Article I also sets forth the limitations on the powers of Congress, including the prohibition of certain actions, such as passing ex post facto laws or granting titles of nobility.

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27. What year did the Boston Tea Party occur?

Explanation

The people's quote - "No Taxation without Representation."

This is around the time British imposed the Tea Act, favoring British East India Tea Company.

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28. If a monarchy is constitutional then the monarch has absolute political power.

Explanation

An absolute monarchy is when the monarch has sole power, a constitutional monarchy is where the monarch has limits.

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29. What year did the First Continental Congress meet to discuss to boycott all British goods?

Explanation

This occurred one year after the Boston Tea Party.

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30. Article IV in the Constitution is about?

Explanation

Article IV of the Constitution is about State Power/Limits. This article outlines the relationship between the states and the federal government. It establishes that each state must give full faith and credit to the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state. It also guarantees that citizens of one state are entitled to the privileges and immunities of citizens in other states. Additionally, Article IV provides a process for admitting new states into the Union and allows Congress to regulate the territories and property of the United States.

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31. Who is the author of Leviathan?

Explanation

Thomas Hobbes is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the author of the book "Leviathan." Published in 1651, "Leviathan" is a seminal work in political philosophy where Hobbes discusses the social contract and the nature of government. Hobbes argues for the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent a state of nature, which he describes as a war of all against all. His ideas in "Leviathan" have had a significant influence on political thought and continue to be studied and debated to this day.

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32. What year was The Mayflower Compact designed?

Explanation

The Mayflower Compact was designed in the year 1620. This document was created by the Pilgrims who were aboard the Mayflower ship when they arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The compact was an agreement that established a democratic form of government and outlined the rules and laws that the settlers would abide by. It was an important step towards self-governance and played a significant role in the development of American democracy.

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33. Which article in the Constitution covered Bicameralism: Section 1-7 House and SenateEnumerated Powers: Section 8 - Power to collect taxes, borrow money, regulate commerce, declare war, and maintain an army & navy.And covered the elections and qualifications.

Explanation

The correct answer is Article I. Article I of the Constitution covers the bicameralism, which refers to the division of the legislative branch into two separate chambers, namely the House of Representatives and the Senate. This article also addresses the elections and qualifications of members of Congress.

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34. Article V in the Constitution is about?

Explanation

Article V of the Constitution outlines the process for amending the Constitution. It provides two methods by which amendments can be proposed: either by a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. Once an amendment is proposed, it must be ratified by three-fourths of the states in order to become part of the Constitution. This article demonstrates the Founding Fathers' foresight in allowing for changes to be made to the Constitution as societal needs and values evolve over time.

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35. What was the first British tax imposed on the new Colonies?

Explanation

The Stamp Act was the first British tax imposed on the new Colonies. It was passed in 1765 and required all legal documents, newspapers, and other printed materials in the colonies to carry a stamp. This act was met with widespread opposition and protests from the colonists, who saw it as a violation of their rights and an unfair burden. The Stamp Act ultimately played a significant role in fueling the tensions that led to the American Revolution.

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36. What are the two ways that the U.S. can change it's constitution?

Explanation

The U.S. can change its constitution through two ways: by Congress and by Convention. By Congress refers to the process of proposing amendments to the constitution, which requires a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. By Convention refers to the alternative method of amending the constitution, where a national convention is called by Congress upon the request of two-thirds of the state legislatures. In this convention, proposed amendments are discussed and ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states.

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37. Which article mentioned supreme law and "No Religious Test" ?

Explanation

Article VI of the United States Constitution is the correct answer. This article is often referred to as the Supremacy Clause and it states that the Constitution, along with federal laws and treaties, is the supreme law of the land. It also prohibits any religious test as a qualification for holding public office. This means that no one can be denied a government position based on their religious beliefs or lack thereof.

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38. What occurred Aug. 1786 - Feb. 1787?

Explanation

The correct answer is The Shays Rebellion. The Shays Rebellion occurred between August 1786 and February 1787. It was an armed uprising in Massachusetts led by farmers who were protesting against high taxes and economic policies that were causing them financial distress. The rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which lacked a strong central government to address such issues. This event played a significant role in shaping the push for a stronger federal government and ultimately led to the drafting of the United States Constitution.

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39. Characterized by a state that regulates nearly every aspect of public and private life is what kind of government?

Explanation

Aka Tolitarian

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40. Which article included the "Necessary and Proper" clause?

Explanation

The "Necessary and Proper" clause is included in Article I of the Constitution. This clause, also known as the Elastic Clause, grants Congress the power to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. It gives Congress flexibility in interpreting and implementing its powers, allowing it to adapt to changing circumstances and address unforeseen issues.

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41. Which article included the "Full faith and Credit" clause?

Explanation

Article IV of the United States Constitution includes the "Full faith and Credit" clause. This clause requires each state to recognize and respect the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other state. It ensures that legal decisions made in one state are honored and enforced in all other states, promoting unity and cooperation among the states. This clause has significant implications for matters such as marriage, adoption, and contracts, as it ensures that individuals' rights and obligations are recognized across state lines.

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42. What year was the Townshend Act created?

Explanation

The Townshend Act imposed a tax on lead, paper, paint, glass & tea.

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43. Article VI in the Constitution covers...

Explanation

Article VI in the Constitution covers Federal Power. This article establishes the supremacy of the federal government over state governments and outlines the powers and responsibilities of the federal government. It also includes provisions such as the supremacy clause, which states that federal law takes precedence over state law, and the requirement that all state and federal officials take an oath to support the Constitution. Overall, Article VI ensures that the federal government has the authority to exercise its powers and fulfill its duties as outlined in the Constitution.

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44. Individual has full power over entire country.

Explanation

Autocracy - "Self ruler" or "Rule by one's self"

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45. What were the Framers of the United States interest? (Select all that apply.)

Explanation

The Framers of the United States were interested in commerce because they wanted to establish a strong economy and promote trade among the states. They were also interested in protecting property rights, as they believed in the importance of individual ownership and the accumulation of wealth. Additionally, they sought to prevent excessive democracy by creating a system of checks and balances to ensure that no single branch of government or group of people could have too much power. Finally, they aimed to limit national power and prevent the government from becoming too centralized, in order to protect the rights and autonomy of the states.

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What year was Leviathan published?
What is the state of nature?
Who said the right to:1. Life2. Liberty3. Property
Who created the Two Treatises of Government?
When was the Declaration of Independence?
Rule by a government where all citizens are represented, but power is...
What year was the Two Treatises of Government first published?
Rule by a religious elite.
For the purposes of the apportionment of congress seats, every slave...
Rule by an individual who has inherited the role and expects...
Rule by a small group of people who share similar interests or...
Which plan created a congress based on state size (pop.) and was...
When was the Articles of Confederation Adopted?
Article VII in the Constitution is about the ....
In what year was the Sugar Act imposed?
What plan was proposed, because the people didn't believe the first...
The Constitution needed to be adopted by ________ of the 13 states.
Second Continental Congress discussed to declare independence during...
Article II is about?
What proposed a bicameral legislature where they had a house by...
Article III covers?
Which Article went over the multiple roles and duties of the president...
Which article created the supreme court?
In the Constitution, Articles 1-7 creates a system founded upon...
What kind of government does the United States have?
What is Article I about?
What year did the Boston Tea Party occur?
If a monarchy is constitutional then the monarch has absolute...
What year did the First Continental Congress meet to discuss...
Article IV in the Constitution is about?
Who is the author of Leviathan?
What year was The Mayflower Compact designed?
Which article in the Constitution covered Bicameralism: Section 1-7...
Article V in the Constitution is about?
What was the first British tax imposed on the new Colonies?
What are the two ways that the U.S. can change it's constitution?
Which article mentioned supreme law and "No Religious Test" ?
What occurred Aug. 1786 - Feb. 1787?
Characterized by a state that regulates nearly every aspect of public...
Which article included the "Necessary and Proper" clause?
Which article included the "Full faith and Credit" clause?
What year was the Townshend Act created?
Article VI in the Constitution covers...
Individual has full power over entire country.
What were the Framers of the United States interest? (Select all that...
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