Va/US Government Semester Final Exam
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How many terms can a president serve?
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2
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3
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4
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5
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About This Quiz
This VA\/US Government Semester Final EXAM assesses knowledge on key aspects of US governance, including presidential terms, Supreme Court justices, and historical documents. Essential for students understanding US political structure and civic responsibilities.
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- 2.
What is the symbol of the Democratic Party?
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Elephant
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Eagle
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Turkey
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Donkey
Correct Answer
A. DonkeyExplanation
The symbol of the Democratic Party is the donkey. This symbol originated from a political cartoon in the 19th century, where the Democratic Party was represented as a donkey. The cartoon was published in response to Andrew Jackson being called a "jackass" by his opponents, but instead of being offended, Jackson embraced the symbol and used it in his campaign. Since then, the donkey has become widely recognized as the symbol of the Democratic Party.Rate this question:
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- 3.
How many justices sit on the U.S. Supreme Court?
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3
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5
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7
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9
Correct Answer
A. 9Explanation
There are nine justices who sit on the U.S. Supreme Court. This is the correct answer because the Supreme Court is composed of nine justices who are responsible for interpreting the Constitution and making decisions on important legal issues. The number of justices is set by Congress and has remained at nine since 1869. Each justice is appointed for life, ensuring a balance of power and stability in the highest court of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 4.
In what year was the U.S. Constitution written?
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1607
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1776
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1787
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1865
Correct Answer
A. 1787Explanation
The U.S. Constitution was written in 1787. This is the correct answer because it is the only option that matches the historical timeline of when the Constitution was drafted and signed by the Founding Fathers. The Constitution was created to replace the Articles of Confederation and establish the framework for the United States government.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following was NOT an author of the Federalist Papers?
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James Madison
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Patrick Henry
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Alexander Hamilton
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Pubilus
Correct Answer
A. Patrick HenryExplanation
Patrick Henry was not an author of the Federalist Papers. The Federalist Papers were a series of essays written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay under the pseudonym Publius. These essays were written to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution. While Patrick Henry was a prominent figure during the American Revolution and a strong opponent of the Constitution, he did not contribute to the Federalist Papers.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Of the following, which power belongs to the Federal government?
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Provide schooling
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Print money
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Issue driver's license
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Approve land zoning permits
Correct Answer
A. Print moneyExplanation
The power of printing money belongs to the Federal government. This power is granted to the Federal Reserve, which is responsible for controlling the nation's money supply and ensuring the stability of the economy. By having the authority to print money, the Federal government can regulate inflation, manage interest rates, and stimulate economic growth.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How many constitutional amendments were created to regulate and protect voting rights?
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1
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2
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3
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4
Correct Answer
A. 4Explanation
Four constitutional amendments were created to regulate and protect voting rights. These amendments include the 15th Amendment, which prohibits the denial of voting rights based on race or color; the 19th Amendment, which grants women the right to vote; the 24th Amendment, which prohibits poll taxes in federal elections; and the 26th Amendment, which lowers the voting age to 18. These amendments were crucial in expanding voting rights and ensuring equal access to the electoral process for all citizens.Rate this question:
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- 8.
CONSTITUTIONAL ARGUMENT: this called for a strong central government and a bicameral legislature:
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Virginia Plan
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New Jersey Plan
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Mississippi Plan
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Albany Plan
Correct Answer
A. Virginia PlanExplanation
The correct answer is Virginia Plan. The Virginia Plan was proposed during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and called for a strong central government and a bicameral legislature. It was presented by delegates from Virginia, led by James Madison, and outlined a plan for a national government with three branches - legislative, executive, and judicial. The plan favored larger states and proposed representation in the legislature based on population, which was a departure from the equal representation advocated by the smaller states. The Virginia Plan ultimately influenced the structure and powers of the United States government as outlined in the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The _____________ was the first document that limited government and empowered the people...
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Declaration of Independence
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Mayflower Compact
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Magna Carta
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U.S. Constitution
Correct Answer
A. Magna CartaExplanation
The Magna Carta was the first document that limited the power of the government and granted certain rights and freedoms to the people. It was signed by King John of England in 1215 and established the principle that the monarch was not above the law and that the government should be subject to certain restrictions. The Magna Carta laid the foundation for modern concepts of constitutional law and individual rights, making it a significant milestone in the history of government and empowering the people.Rate this question:
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- 10.
This court case established judicial review...
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Brown v. Board of Education
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Roe v.Wade
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Rosie Parks v. United States
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Marbury v. Madison
Correct Answer
A. Marbury v. MadisonExplanation
Marbury v. Madison is the correct answer because this court case, decided in 1803, established the principle of judicial review. Judicial review refers to the power of the Supreme Court to declare laws or actions of the government unconstitutional. In this case, the Supreme Court asserted its authority to review the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress and struck down a portion of the Judiciary Act of 1789. This landmark decision solidified the Court's role as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution and significantly shaped the balance of power between the branches of government.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Civil Rights activist who led the march on Selma, Alabama?
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Jesse Jackson
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Martin Luther King Jr
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Barack Obama
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Louis Farakhan
Correct Answer
A. Martin Luther King JrExplanation
Martin Luther King Jr. is the correct answer because he was a prominent Civil Rights activist who played a significant role in leading the march on Selma, Alabama. He was a key figure in the American Civil Rights Movement and is known for his nonviolent approach to fighting racial inequality. King's leadership and advocacy for voting rights for African Americans led to the historic Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, which ultimately resulted in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. His contributions and activism continue to be celebrated and recognized today.Rate this question:
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- 12.
This amendment guaranteed suffrage to people regardless of color, race or previous condition of servitude...
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13th
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14th
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15th
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19th
Correct Answer
A. 15thExplanation
The 15th Amendment to the United States Constitution guaranteed suffrage to all citizens regardless of color, race, or previous condition of servitude. This amendment aimed to protect the voting rights of African American men, who had previously been denied the right to vote due to discriminatory practices such as poll taxes and literacy tests. The 15th Amendment was a significant step towards equal voting rights for all citizens, although it did not fully eliminate voter suppression and discrimination.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following is a responsibility of a U.S. citizen?
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Gun ownership
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Jury duty
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Military service
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Pay poll tax
Correct Answer
A. Jury dutyExplanation
Jury duty is a responsibility of a U.S. citizen as it is an essential part of the judicial system. Citizens are randomly selected to serve on a jury and participate in the legal process by listening to evidence, deliberating, and making decisions in criminal and civil cases. By fulfilling this duty, citizens contribute to the fair and impartial administration of justice in their community. Jury duty is a civic responsibility that ensures the right to a fair trial for all individuals and upholds the principles of democracy and the rule of law.Rate this question:
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- 14.
How old must one be to elected President of the United States?
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18
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21
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35
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40
Correct Answer
A. 35Explanation
To be elected President of the United States, one must be at least 35 years old. This age requirement is specified in the United States Constitution. It is believed that this minimum age ensures that the President has enough life experience and maturity to handle the responsibilities of the highest office in the country.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What is the one purpose of the U.S. Constitution?
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To declare war
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To define states laws
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To establish treaties
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To protect rights of citizens
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None of the above
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All of the above
Correct Answer
A. To protect rights of citizensExplanation
The purpose of the U.S. Constitution is to protect the rights of citizens. It serves as a fundamental document that outlines the basic rights and freedoms of individuals in the United States. The Constitution establishes a framework for the government and sets limits on its power, ensuring that the rights of citizens are safeguarded. It includes provisions such as the Bill of Rights, which guarantees certain individual freedoms and protections. The Constitution's primary goal is to ensure that the rights and liberties of all citizens are respected and upheld.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Of the following, which is NOT required to amend the constitution?
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Be passed by two-thirds of House and Senate
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Be authorized by the President
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Be ratified by three-fourths of states
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None of the above
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All of the above
Correct Answer
A. Be authorized by the PresidentExplanation
To amend the constitution, a proposed amendment must be passed by two-thirds of both the House and the Senate and ratified by three-fourths of the states. The President does not have the authority to authorize or veto a constitutional amendment. Therefore, the statement "be authorized by the President" is NOT required to amend the constitution.Rate this question:
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- 17.
All impeachment trials are tried by the ____________________?
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Cabinet
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House of Representatives
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Senate
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Supreme Court
Correct Answer
A. SenateExplanation
Impeachment trials are tried by the Senate. The Constitution grants the Senate the sole power to try all impeachments. This means that when a public official, such as the President, Vice President, or federal judge, is impeached by the House of Representatives, the Senate is responsible for conducting the trial. The Senate acts as the jury in these trials, and a two-thirds majority vote is required to convict and remove the impeached official from office. Therefore, the correct answer is Senate.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The existing holder of a political office [senate, house of representatives, president etc...] is called?
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Majority leader candidate
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Precedent candidate
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Interest group candidate
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Incumbent candidate
Correct Answer
A. Incumbent candidateExplanation
The existing holder of a political office is called an incumbent candidate. This term refers to a person who is currently in office and seeking re-election. Incumbents have the advantage of name recognition, experience, and the ability to use their position to campaign for themselves. They often have a higher chance of winning compared to their challengers because they are already familiar to the voters and have a track record in the office they hold.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Powers that are NOT enumerated or prohibited by the constitution, but are instead left for the states are called?
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Inherent powers
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Reserved powers
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Implied powers
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Delegated powers
Correct Answer
A. Reserved powersExplanation
Reserved powers are powers that are not specifically listed or prohibited in the constitution, but are instead reserved for the states. These powers are not delegated to the federal government and are therefore left to the individual states to exercise. This allows states to have authority over certain areas such as education, public health, and intrastate commerce. Reserved powers are an important aspect of federalism, which divides power between the national government and the states.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The ACT the prohibits federal employees from engaging in partisan political activities is the?
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Patriot Act
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Hatch Act of 1939
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Federal Elections Campaign Act
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Ethics in Government Act of 1978
Correct Answer
A. Hatch Act of 1939Explanation
The correct answer is the Hatch Act of 1939. The Hatch Act is a federal law that restricts the political activities of federal employees. It prohibits them from engaging in partisan political activities while on duty, in the workplace, or in their official capacity. The purpose of the Hatch Act is to ensure that federal employees remain politically neutral and do not use their positions for partisan purposes.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Congressional review (supervision) of federal agencies, programs and activities is known as?
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Recission
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Logrolling
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Gerrymandering
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Oversight
Correct Answer
A. OversightExplanation
Oversight refers to the process of Congressional review and supervision of federal agencies, programs, and activities. It involves holding these entities accountable, monitoring their actions, and ensuring they are operating within the boundaries of the law. Through oversight, Congress can investigate, evaluate, and provide guidance to these agencies, ultimately ensuring that they are serving the best interests of the public.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A system of government where powers are constitutionally divided between national government and state governments is called?
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Limited government
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Direct democracy
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Federalism
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Representative democracy
Correct Answer
A. FederalismExplanation
Federalism is a system of government where powers are constitutionally divided between a central/national government and state governments. This division of powers allows for the sharing of responsibilities and authority between the two levels of government, ensuring a balance of power and preventing the concentration of power in one entity. Federalism promotes cooperation and coordination between the national and state governments, while also allowing states to have some level of autonomy and control over their own affairs.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following best describes most accurately the President's veto power?
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A President usually vetoes one-third of all bills passed by Congress
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A President can threaten to veto a bill to try and influence Congress against passing a law, because the President knows Congress does not have enough votes to override a veto
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A President can only veto a bill if at least 50 percent of the citizens approve of the veto process
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A President vetoes bills if they are passed in Congress by the opposing political party
Correct Answer
A. A President can threaten to veto a bill to try and influence Congress against passing a law, because the President knows Congress does not have enough votes to override a vetoExplanation
The President's veto power allows them to threaten to veto a bill in order to influence Congress against passing a law. This is because the President knows that Congress does not have enough votes to override a veto.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which federal agency determines monetary policy for the United States?
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Federal Reserve Board
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Department of Treasury
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Office of Management and Budget
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International Monetary Fund
Correct Answer
A. Federal Reserve BoardExplanation
The Federal Reserve Board is the correct answer because it is the federal agency responsible for determining the monetary policy of the United States. It is an independent agency that controls the nation's money supply, regulates banks, and manages interest rates to promote economic stability and growth. The Department of Treasury handles fiscal policy and manages the government's finances, while the Office of Management and Budget oversees the federal budget. The International Monetary Fund is an international organization that provides financial assistance and promotes global monetary cooperation.Rate this question:
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- 25.
American labor unions argue that they should be recognized by law; which of the following is actually recognized already by law regarding labor unions?
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Labor unions may require members to make political contributions
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Labor unions may ignore a court order to have workers to return to their jobs
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Labor unions can lead employees in a strike
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Labor unions can prevent public access to a work (business) job site
Correct Answer
A. Labor unions can lead employees in a strikeExplanation
Labor unions can lead employees in a strike.Rate this question:
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- 26.
If no presidential candidate receives the mandated 270 electoral votes, then the presidency is determined by?
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Supreme Court
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House of Representatives
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Senate
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Cabinet members
Correct Answer
A. House of RepresentativesExplanation
If no presidential candidate receives the mandated 270 electoral votes, the presidency is determined by the House of Representatives. This is stated in the Constitution of the United States. According to the 12th Amendment, in such a scenario, the House of Representatives is responsible for selecting the President from the top three candidates who received the most electoral votes. Each state delegation in the House gets one vote, and a candidate must receive the votes of at least 26 state delegations to become President.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which of the Supreme Court cases determined "one person, one vote"?
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Roe v.Wade
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Gideon v. Wainwright
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Baker v. Carr
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Korematsu v. United States
Correct Answer
A. Baker v. CarrExplanation
Baker v. Carr is the correct answer because this Supreme Court case, decided in 1962, established the principle of "one person, one vote." The case involved a challenge to Tennessee's legislative districts, which had not been redrawn in over 60 years, resulting in significant population disparities. The Supreme Court ruled that these disparities violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and that legislative districts must be roughly equal in population to ensure fair representation. This landmark decision had a significant impact on the redrawing of legislative districts across the United States and the principle of "one person, one vote" became a fundamental aspect of American democracy.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The exchange of political favors by legislatures, such as trading votes is known as logrolling?
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Logrolling refers to the practice of exchanging political favors or trading votes among legislators. This practice involves legislators agreeing to support each other's proposals or policies in order to gain support for their own initiatives. It is a common strategy used in political negotiations and can be seen as a form of political favoritism. Therefore, the statement "The exchange of political favors by legislatures, such as trading votes is known as logrolling" is true.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The obstructive tactic used by a senator to disrupt discussion or a vote on a bill is called?
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Caucusing
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Quorum call
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Gerrymandering
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Filibuster
Correct Answer
A. FilibusterExplanation
A filibuster is a tactic used by a senator to obstruct or delay the progress of a bill by speaking for an extended period of time. This tactic is often used to prevent a vote on a bill or to draw attention to a particular issue. By continuously speaking, the senator aims to use up the available time for debate and prevent the bill from moving forward. This can be a strategic move to gain leverage, negotiate changes to the bill, or to draw attention to a specific cause or concern.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The person who presides over the Senate when the Vice-President is absent is known as the Majority Leader?
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
President pro temporeRate this question:
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- 31.
The practice of redrawing congressional district lines to favor a political party is called?
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Gerrymandering
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Reapportionment
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Redistricting
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Affirmative action
Correct Answer
A. GerrymanderingExplanation
Gerrymandering is the practice of redrawing congressional district lines to favor a political party. It involves manipulating the boundaries of electoral districts in order to give one party an advantage over others. This can be done by concentrating the opposing party's voters into a few districts or by spreading them thinly across multiple districts. The goal is to maximize the number of seats a party can win in an election. Reapportionment refers to the process of reallocating seats in the House of Representatives based on population changes, while redistricting is the redrawing of district boundaries to reflect these changes. Affirmative action, on the other hand, is a policy aimed at promoting equal opportunities for historically disadvantaged groups.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The senate procedure that requires 60 votes to stop a filibuster is called?
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Recission
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Reconciliation
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Cloture
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Override
Correct Answer
A. ClotureExplanation
Cloture is the correct answer because it refers to the senate procedure that requires 60 votes to stop a filibuster. Filibuster is a tactic used to delay or block a vote on a proposed legislation. Cloture is a mechanism that can be invoked to end a filibuster and proceed to a vote. By requiring a 60-vote threshold, cloture ensures that there is a sufficient majority to overcome the filibuster and move forward with the legislative process.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The total number of amendments to the U. S. Constitution is?
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10
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27
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31
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42
Correct Answer
A. 27Explanation
The total number of amendments to the U.S. Constitution is 27. These amendments were added to the Constitution to address various issues and concerns that arose over time. They include important changes such as the Bill of Rights, which guarantees certain fundamental rights and freedoms to citizens. The amendments also cover topics such as voting rights, prohibition, and the abolition of slavery. Each amendment went through a rigorous process of proposal and ratification, involving both Congress and the states. The 27 amendments reflect the evolving nature of the Constitution and its ability to adapt to changing societal needs and values.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Article II of the constitution is about__________________ branch of government?
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Judicial
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Congressional
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Executive
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Legislative
Correct Answer
A. ExecutiveExplanation
Article II of the constitution is about the executive branch of government. This branch is responsible for enforcing laws and carrying out the day-to-day operations of the government. It outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President, including their role as the commander-in-chief of the military, the ability to make treaties, appoint federal officials, and veto legislation. The article also establishes the Electoral College and outlines the process for electing the President. Overall, Article II focuses on the powers and duties of the executive branch and its role in the separation of powers within the government.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Patrick Henry is best associated with which of the quotes?
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One if by land, two if by sea
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Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
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Give me liberty or give me death
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Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead
Correct Answer
A. Give me liberty or give me deathExplanation
Patrick Henry is best associated with the quote "give me liberty or give me death." This quote is from his famous speech delivered in 1775, urging the Virginia Convention to take up arms against the British. Henry passionately argued that the colonists should fight for their freedom and independence, even if it meant risking their lives. This quote has since become synonymous with the American spirit of liberty and the willingness to make great sacrifices for the cause of freedom.Rate this question:
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- 36.
What philosopher is associated with the statement "consent of the governed"?
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Thomas Hobbes
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John Locke
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Baron Montesquieu
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Benjamin Farnklin
Correct Answer
A. Thomas HobbesExplanation
Thomas Hobbes is associated with the statement "consent of the governed." Hobbes was a philosopher who believed in a social contract theory, where individuals give up some of their freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for protection and security. He argued that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the people it governs, meaning that the people agree to be governed and give their consent to the government's power.Rate this question:
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- 37.
How any electoral college votes are needed to win the U.S. Presidency?
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100
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538
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325
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270
Correct Answer
A. 270Explanation
In the U.S. Presidency, the electoral college system is used to determine the winner. Each state is allocated a certain number of electoral college votes based on its population. To win the Presidency, a candidate needs to secure a majority of these electoral college votes. The total number of electoral college votes is 538, so the correct answer is 270, which is the minimum number of votes required to win.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The idea of self-government is evident by which of three words found in the Constitution?
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Justice for all
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We the people
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Liberty for all
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We the citizens
Correct Answer
A. We the peopleExplanation
The phrase "we the people" found in the Constitution reflects the idea of self-government. It emphasizes that the power and authority of the government come from the people themselves. This phrase signifies that the government is established by and for the people, highlighting the principles of democracy and popular sovereignty. It implies that the citizens have the right to participate in the decision-making process and have a say in how their government is run.Rate this question:
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- 39.
For how many years does a U.S. Senator serve after being elected?
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2
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4
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6
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8
Correct Answer
A. 6Explanation
A U.S. Senator serves for 6 years after being elected. This is determined by the Constitution, which states that Senators have a term of 6 years. This longer term allows Senators to have more stability and continuity in their work, as they are not constantly campaigning for reelection. It also provides a balance to the shorter 2-year term of members of the House of Representatives. Senators can be reelected for multiple terms if they choose to run again and are successful in the election.Rate this question:
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- 40.
What economic system is in the United States?
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Black market
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Socialist, communist
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Command
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Capitalist, free market
Correct Answer
A. Capitalist, free marketExplanation
The economic system in the United States is capitalist and free market. This means that the country's economy is primarily driven by private ownership and individual decision-making. In a capitalist system, businesses and industries are owned and operated by individuals or private entities, and the prices of goods and services are determined by supply and demand. The government's role is limited, allowing for competition and market forces to shape the economy. This system promotes entrepreneurship, innovation, and the accumulation of wealth.Rate this question:
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- 41.
What determines the number of house of representatives a state will have in congress?
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Land mass
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Population
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Supreme Court
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Congress
Correct Answer
A. PopulationExplanation
The number of House of Representatives a state will have in Congress is determined by its population. Each state is allocated a certain number of representatives based on the population count from the decennial census. This ensures that states with larger populations have more representation in Congress, while smaller states have fewer representatives. The idea behind this is to provide fair and proportional representation for all states in the legislative branch of the government.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The District of Columbia (Washington DC) representative is the only non-voting member of congress?
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
there are five (5) non-voting members; Washington DC, American Somoa, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin IslandsRate this question:
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- 43.
Which of the following Acts passed by King George Washington caused the colonists to revolt, resulting in the American Revolution?
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The Stamp Act
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The Quartering Act
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The Sugar Act
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The Massachusetts Government Act
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None of the above
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All of the above
Correct Answer
A. None of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "None of the above". The question is asking which Act passed by King George Washington caused the colonists to revolt, resulting in the American Revolution. However, none of the Acts listed (Stamp Act, Quartering Act, Sugar Act, Massachusetts Government Act) were passed by King George Washington. The American Revolution occurred before George Washington became the first President of the United States.Rate this question:
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Dec 30, 2016Quiz Created by
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