1.
Most countries set their voting age at __________.
Correct Answer
B. 18
Explanation
Most countries set their voting age at 18. This is because 18 is generally considered the age at which individuals are considered adults and are granted certain rights and responsibilities. At this age, individuals are seen as mature enough to make informed decisions and participate in the democratic process. Setting the voting age at 18 ensures that a significant portion of the population has the opportunity to have their voices heard and contribute to the political landscape of their country.
2.
When poll taxes were used as an obstacle to voting rights, they were imposed on all citizens.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Poll taxes were a form of voter suppression used in the past to prevent certain groups, particularly African Americans, from exercising their right to vote. These taxes were imposed on all citizens, regardless of race or social status, making it difficult for many people to afford to vote. Therefore, the statement that poll taxes were imposed on all citizens is true.
3.
If a voter does not move or change party affiliations, his or her registration lasts for life.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
If a voter does not move or change party affiliations, their registration lasts for life. This means that once a person registers to vote and does not make any changes to their address or party affiliation, their registration remains active indefinitely. This ensures that the voter can participate in future elections without the need for re-registering.
4.
Voting for a president allows its citizens to choose the course of America's future. Then, what is not a way that a president's decisions can affect the country?
Correct Answer
D. Choosing local officials in city and state governments
Explanation
The president's decisions can affect the country by appointing new Supreme Court justices, helping to set the agenda for laws discussed in Congress, and determining how money is spent by creating a federal budget. However, choosing local officials in city and state governments is not a way that a president's decisions can directly affect the country. This responsibility falls under the jurisdiction of local elections and the citizens of each city and state.
5.
To meet a state's residency requirement for voting, people must prove that they __________.
Correct Answer
A. Have lived in a state for a certain amount of time
Explanation
To meet a state's residency requirement for voting, people must prove that they have lived in a state for a certain amount of time. This means that individuals must establish a period of residency in a particular state before they are eligible to vote in that state's elections. This requirement ensures that voters have a genuine connection to the state and are familiar with its issues and concerns before participating in the democratic process.
6.
Freddy is interested in voting for a local election that chooses new officials in his community. Which issue would be affected by his vote?
Correct Answer
D. How money is spent on a new bus system in the city
Explanation
By voting in the local election, Freddy can have an impact on how money is allocated for a new bus system in the city. The new officials elected through the local election will have the authority to make decisions regarding the budget and determine the allocation of funds for various projects, including the new bus system. Therefore, Freddy's vote can influence the outcome of this issue.
7.
What was made illegal in the United States during the 24th Amendment to the Constitution?
Correct Answer
C. Poll taxes
Explanation
The correct answer is poll taxes. The 24th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States made poll taxes illegal. Poll taxes were fees imposed on individuals in order to vote, which disproportionately affected low-income individuals and minorities, as they were often unable to afford the tax. The amendment was passed in 1964, aiming to eliminate this discriminatory practice and ensure equal access to voting rights for all citizens.
8.
Following problems may disqualify a person from voting in the United States except:
Correct Answer
A. The person is between the ages of 18 and 21.
Explanation
In the United States, the legal voting age is 18. Therefore, being between the ages of 18 and 21 does not disqualify a person from voting. The other options listed in the question, such as being mentally incapacitated, not registered to vote, or serving a sentence after committing a felony, can disqualify a person from voting.
9.
Poll taxes and literacy taxes were used in the United States until they became illegal in the __________.
Correct Answer
C. 1960s
Explanation
Poll taxes and literacy taxes were used in the United States until they became illegal in the 1960s. This was a significant period in American history when civil rights movements were gaining momentum, and there was a push for equal voting rights. The 1960s saw the passage of the 24th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibited the use of poll taxes in federal elections. Additionally, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 further enforced the ban on discriminatory voting practices, including literacy tests. These legislative changes marked a turning point in American democracy, ensuring that voting rights were no longer restricted based on financial or educational qualifications.
10.
While signing a voter declaration on a voter registration form, the voters are certifying all of the following things EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
B. They are a Republican or Democrat.
Explanation
The correct answer is "They are a Republican or Democrat." This is because the voter declaration on a voter registration form certifies that the individual is at least 18 years old, has filled out the form truthfully, and is a citizen of the United States. However, it does not require them to declare their political party affiliation as either Republican or Democrat.