1.
What does dealignment refer to?
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B
Explanation
Dealignment refers to a substantial erosion of political party loyalties among voters. This means that voters are becoming less loyal to a specific political party and are more likely to change their party affiliation or vote for candidates from different parties. The U.S. election trends are characterized as dealignment, indicating that there has been a decline in party loyalty among American voters. Therefore, the correct answer is "Both A and B" as dealignment refers to the erosion of party loyalties and this trend is observed in U.S. elections.
2.
Who gives up their party affiliation to independent voters in dealignment?
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B
Explanation
Both Republicans and Democrats give up their party affiliation to independent voters in dealignment. Dealignment refers to a trend where voters are becoming less loyal to a particular political party and are more likely to identify as independent. This means that both Republicans and Democrats need to appeal to independent voters in order to secure their support. As a result, they may modify their positions or policies to attract these voters, effectively giving up some of their party affiliation in the process.
3.
In which political system do individuals switch their votes from one party to another?
Correct Answer
A. Realignment
Explanation
Realignment refers to a political system where individuals switch their votes from one party to another. This can occur due to various reasons such as changing political ideologies, dissatisfaction with the current party, or alignment with a new party's policies. Realignment is a common phenomenon in democratic systems where voters have the freedom to choose and change their political affiliations based on their changing beliefs and priorities.
4.
Where can dealignment apply?
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B
Explanation
Dealignment can apply to both partisanship and social and economic classes. Partisanship dealignment refers to a decline in the long-term loyalty of voters towards a particular political party. It suggests that voters are becoming less attached to a specific party and are more likely to switch their support between different parties. Social and economic class dealignment refers to a weakening of the relationship between a person's social or economic class and their political preferences. It suggests that traditional class-based voting patterns are becoming less relevant as individuals are increasingly influenced by other factors in their voting decisions.
5.
How is dealignment from major political parties indicated?
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B
Explanation
Dealignment from major political parties is indicated by an increase in the number of independent candidates and a decrease in overall voter participation. When voters become disenchanted with the major political parties, they may choose to support independent candidates instead. This shift away from traditional party loyalty can lead to a decrease in overall voter participation as individuals feel less connected to the party system. Therefore, the correct answer is both A and B.
6.
Who won the Presidential Election of 1860?
Correct Answer
A. Abraham Lincoln
Explanation
Abraham Lincoln won the Presidential Election of 1860. He was the candidate of the Republican Party and emerged victorious. Lincoln's election was significant because it led to the secession of several Southern states and ultimately the American Civil War. As the 16th President of the United States, Lincoln played a crucial role in preserving the Union and abolishing slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation. His leadership during this tumultuous time in American history solidified his place as one of the most influential presidents.
7.
Party realignment happens because of
Correct Answer
C. Both A and B
Explanation
Party realignment happens because of war and economic depression. These two factors can significantly impact the political landscape and lead to shifts in party alliances and voter preferences. During times of war, parties may align themselves based on their stance on the conflict, leading to realignment. Similarly, economic depression can create discontent among the population, causing them to seek alternative political options and resulting in party realignment. Therefore, both war and economic depression can be influential factors in party realignment.
8.
What marks a shift toward party dealignment?
Correct Answer
B. The increase in Independent voters
Explanation
A shift toward party dealignment is marked by the increase in Independent voters. This means that more people are choosing not to align themselves with any specific political party and are instead identifying as Independents. This shift indicates a weakening of party loyalty and a desire for more independent thinking and decision-making among voters. As a result, political parties may have a harder time maintaining their traditional support base and may need to adapt their strategies to attract these independent voters.
9.
What short-term factors contribute to Partisan dealignment?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The short-term factors that contribute to Partisan dealignment include greater political socialization and awareness, intensive mass media coverage, and the government's poor performance. When individuals become more politically socialized and aware, they may start to question their party affiliations and become less aligned with a specific party. Intensive mass media coverage can also play a role in shaping public opinion and potentially leading to dealignment. Additionally, if the government performs poorly or fails to meet the expectations of the public, this can further contribute to partisan dealignment as individuals may lose faith in their party or the political system as a whole.
10.
Who are called swing voters?
Correct Answer
B. Voters who switch back and forth between different parties.
Explanation
Swing voters are individuals who switch back and forth between different political parties. They are not constant voters who consistently support the same party, nor are they voters who do not switch parties. Swing voters play a crucial role in elections as their shifting allegiances can significantly impact the outcome.