1965 Alabama Literacy Test Quiz
From August 1964 to July 1965, Alabama employed a staggering 100 different literacy tests as a key component of its intricate voter registration process. Applicants were obliged to randomly select a test, making it challenging for them to prepare. Can you measure up and secure your right to vote? Step into the shoes of those who faced these tests during a pivotal period in civil rights history.
In this quiz, you’ll encounter questions that reflect the complexities and challenges of the time. You’ll learn about the history behind these literacy tests, the tactics used to disenfranchise voters, and the Read morecourageous individuals who fought for their rights. Each question serves as a reminder of the resilience required to challenge systemic injustices. Test your knowledge and experience the hurdles many had to overcome to participate in the democratic process.
(Source:Ferris State University Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia)
Alabama Literacy Test Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following is a right guaranteed by the Bill of Rights?
- A.
Public Education
- B.
Employment
- C.
Trial by Jury
- D.
Voting
Correct Answer
C. Trial by JuryExplanation
Trial by Jury is a right guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. This means that individuals accused of a crime have the right to be judged by a group of their peers, rather than solely by a judge. This ensures a fair and unbiased trial, as the jury is made up of ordinary citizens who are expected to evaluate the evidence and make a decision based on the facts presented. This right helps protect individuals from potential abuses of power by the government and ensures that justice is served.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The federal census of population is taken every five years.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The federal census of population in the United States is conducted every ten years, not every five years. The U.S. Constitution mandates a decennial census, which means that a comprehensive count of the population must occur every ten years. This census collects vital demographic information, including age, sex, race, ethnicity, and housing status, which helps inform government policy and funding allocation.Rate this question:
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- 3.
If a person is indicted for a crime, name two rights which he has:
- A.
Right to bear arms and freedom of speech
- B.
Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures and the right to remain silent
- C.
Habeas Corpus and the right to a lawyer
- D.
Freedom of religion and the right to assemble peacefully
Correct Answer
C. Habeas Corpus and the right to a lawyerExplanation
The right to Habeas Corpus is a fundamental legal principle that protects individuals from unlawful detention. It ensures that anyone who is arrested must be brought before a court of law and presented with valid reasons for their detention. This right prevents the government from arbitrarily imprisoning people without due process.Rate this question:
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- 4.
A U.S. senator elected at the general election in November takes office the following year on what date?
- A.
December 25th
- B.
January 3rd
- C.
February 1st
- D.
March 4th
Correct Answer
B. January 3rdExplanation
The date of January 3rd for newly elected senators to take office is established by the 20th Amendment to the Constitution. This amendment, ratified in 1933, aimed to shorten the "lame duck" period—the time between an election and the start of the new congressional term. Before this amendment, senators elected in November wouldn't take office until March 4th of the following year. This change ensured a smoother transition of power and a more responsive government.Rate this question:
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- 5.
A President elected at the general election in November takes office the following year on what date?
- A.
November 1st
- B.
December 1st
- C.
January 20th
- D.
February 20th
Correct Answer
C. January 20thExplanation
The date of January 20th for the presidential inauguration is also set by the 20th Amendment. This date is significant because it marks the formal commencement of the new presidential term. The inauguration ceremony, where the President takes the oath of office, symbolizes the peaceful transfer of power and the continuity of the presidency.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which definition applies to the word “amendment?”
- A.
Proposed change, as in a Constitution
- B.
Make of peace between nationals at war
- C.
A part of the government
- D.
A formal addition or alteration to a legal document or statute
Correct Answer
A. Proposed change, as in a ConstitutionExplanation
The word "amendment" refers to a proposed change, particularly in the context of a Constitution. This term is often used to describe alterations or additions made to a legal document or law. It signifies the intention to modify or improve an existing document or law, usually with the aim of addressing shortcomings or adapting to changing circumstances. The other options, "make of peace between nationals at war" and "a part of the government," do not accurately capture the meaning of the word "amendment" in this context.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A person appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court is appointed for a term of _________________.
- A.
10 years
- B.
15 years
- C.
20 years
- D.
Life
Correct Answer
D. LifeExplanation
Lifetime appointments for Supreme Court justices are a cornerstone of judicial independence in the United States. This system is designed to ensure that justices are free from political pressure and can make impartial decisions based on the law and their interpretation of the Constitution. They are not subject to re-election concerns or the influence of any political party, allowing them to focus solely on upholding the Constitution and interpreting the law without fear of reprisal.Rate this question:
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- 8.
When the Constitution was approved by the original colonies, how many states had to ratify it in order for it to be in effect?
- A.
7
- B.
9
- C.
13
- D.
15
Correct Answer
A. 7Explanation
The requirement for nine states to ratify the Constitution is clearly stated in Article VII. This threshold was a compromise reached during the Constitutional Convention. The framers wanted to ensure that the new government had substantial support from the states while also acknowledging that it might be difficult to achieve unanimous agreement. This process of ratification was a critical step in establishing the legitimacy of the U.S. Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Does enumeration affect the income tax levied on citizens in various states?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Enumeration refers to the process of counting and categorizing individuals or items. In the context of income tax, enumeration can affect the income tax levied on citizens in various states. This is because the enumeration process helps to determine the number of taxpayers in each state, which in turn affects the distribution of tax revenue and the calculation of tax rates. By accurately enumerating taxpayers, states can ensure a fair and equitable distribution of the tax burden. Therefore, enumeration does have an impact on the income tax levied on citizens in various states.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A person opposed to swearing in an oath may say, instead (solemnly) _________________.
- A.
"I refuse"
- B.
"I object"
- C.
"Affirm"
- D.
"I do not swear"
Correct Answer
C. "Affirm"Explanation
The option to "affirm" instead of swearing an oath accommodates individuals who may have religious or philosophical objections to oaths. Affirmations serve the same legal purpose as oaths—to ensure truthfulness and commitment—but without the religious connotations. This reflects the principle of religious freedom enshrined in the First Amendment.Rate this question:
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- 11.
To serve as President of the United States, a person must have attained:
- A.
25 years of age
- B.
35 years of age
- C.
40 years of age
- D.
45 years of age
Correct Answer
B. 35 years of ageExplanation
To serve as President of the United States, a person must have attained the age of 35 years. This requirement is stated in the United States Constitution, specifically in Article II, Section 1. It is one of the eligibility criteria for the presidency, along with being a natural-born citizen and having resided in the country for at least 14 years. The age requirement 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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- 12.
What words are required by law to be on all coins and paper currency of the U.S.?
- A.
"E Pluribus Unum"
- B.
"In God We Trust"
- C.
"Liberty"
- D.
"United States of America"
Correct Answer
B. "In God We Trust"Explanation
The phrase "In God We Trust" was added to U.S. currency in the 1950s during the Cold War. Its inclusion was partly a response to the perceived threat of communism, which was officially atheistic. It was seen as a way to emphasize the religious and spiritual values of the United States and contrast them with the communist ideology.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Supreme Court is the chief lawmaking body of the state.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Supreme Court is not the chief lawmaking body of the state. The role of the Supreme Court is to interpret and apply the law, not to create or enact new laws. The chief lawmaking body of the state is typically the legislature, which is responsible for making and passing laws.Rate this question:
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- 14.
If a law passed by a state is contrary to provisions of the U.S. Constitution, which law prevails?
- A.
The state law
- B.
The U.S. Constitution
- C.
Neither, both become void
- D.
It depends on the specific issue
Correct Answer
B. The U.S. ConstitutionExplanation
The supremacy of the U.S. Constitution over state laws is firmly established by the Supremacy Clause in Article VI. This clause declares that the Constitution, federal laws made in accordance with it, and treaties made under its authority, constitute the "supreme Law of the Land." This means that any state law that conflicts with the Constitution is invalid. This principle is fundamental to the federal system of government in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 15.
If a vacancy occurs in the U.S. Senate, the state must hold an election, but meanwhile, the place may be filled by a temporary appointment made by _______________________________.
- A.
The President
- B.
The Governor
- C.
The state legislature
- D.
A special committee
Correct Answer
B. The GovernorExplanation
The 17th Amendment to the Constitution grants state governors the power to fill vacancies in the U.S. Senate by appointment. This provision ensures that a state has continuous representation in the Senate, even if a senator dies, resigns, or is removed from office. The appointed senator serves until a special election can be held to fill the vacancy permanently.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A U.S. senator is elected for a term of _____ years.
- A.
Two
- B.
Four
- C.
Six
- D.
Eight
Correct Answer
C. SixExplanation
The six-year term for senators is outlined in Article I, Section 3 of the Constitution. This longer term, compared to the two-year term for members of the House of Representatives, was intended to provide stability and continuity in the Senate. It allows senators more time to develop expertise in policy areas, build relationships with colleagues, and consider long-term national interests.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Appropriation of money for the armed services can be only for a period limited to _____ years.
- A.
Two
- B.
Four
- C.
Six
- D.
Eight
Correct Answer
A. TwoExplanation
The Constitution (Article I, Section 8) limits appropriations for the armed forces to two years. This requirement reflects a deep-seated historical concern about maintaining civilian control over the military. By requiring Congress to renew funding every two years, the framers sought to prevent the military from becoming too powerful or independent of civilian oversight. This ensures that the military remains accountable to the elected representatives of the people.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The chief executive and the administrative offices make up the ___________________ branch of government.
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
- D.
Federal
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of government is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws made by the legislative branch. This includes managing the day-to-day operations of government, implementing policies, and conducting foreign relations. The chief executive, usually the president, heads this branch and is supported by various administrative departments and agencies.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Who passes laws dealing with piracy?
- A.
The President
- B.
The Supreme Court
- C.
Congress
- D.
State legislatures
Correct Answer
C. CongressExplanation
The power to pass laws dealing with piracy rests with Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government. This authority is derived from Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to "define and punish Piracies and Felonies committed on the high Seas, and Offenses against the Law of Nations." Congress exercises this power by enacting laws to protect intellectual property, combat copyright infringement, and punish those involved in piracy activities.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The number of representatives which a state is entitled to have in the House of Representatives is based on:
- A.
The state's land area
- B.
Population (as determined by census)
- C.
The number of senators the state has
- D.
The state's economic output
Correct Answer
B. Population (as determined by census)Explanation
The principle of proportional representation is enshrined in the Constitution, specifically in Article I, Section 2. This means that states with larger populations have more representatives in the House of Representatives. The decennial census, mandated by the Constitution, provides the official count of each state's population, which is then used to determine the apportionment of representatives. This ensures that the House reflects the relative population size of each state, giving more populous.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Constitution protects an individual against punishments which are _________________________________________.
- A.
Common in other countries
- B.
Deemed necessary by the government
- C.
Cruel and unusual
- D.
Handed down by a judge
Correct Answer
C. Cruel and unusualExplanation
The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly prohibits "cruel and unusual punishments." This protection reflects a fundamental belief in human dignity and limits the government's power to inflict excessive or barbaric punishments. The concept of "cruel and unusual" evolves over time and is subject to judicial interpretation, but it generally prohibits punishments that are disproportionate to the offense, those that inflict unnecessary pain or suffering, or those that are considered shocking to the conscience.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When a jury has heard and rendered a verdict in a case, and the judgment on the verdict has become final, the defendant cannot again be brought to trial for the same cause.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Once a jury has heard a case and reached a verdict, and that verdict has been finalized, it means that the legal process for that particular case has been completed. This principle is known as double jeopardy, which prevents an individual from being tried again for the same offense. Therefore, the statement "the defendant cannot again be brought to trial for the same cause" is true.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Name two levels of government which can levy taxes:
- A.
Federal and international
- B.
State and local
- C.
Private and public
- D.
County and regional
Correct Answer
B. State and localExplanation
The power to levy taxes is a concurrent power shared by both state and local governments. This means that both levels of government have the authority to impose taxes within their jurisdictions. State governments typically levy taxes on income, sales, and property, while local governments rely heavily on property taxes and may also impose sales taxes or other local taxes. This system allows for a degree of fiscal autonomy at both the state and local levels, enabling them to fund public services and infrastructure projects.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Communism was the type of government in _________________.
- A.
U.S.
- B.
Russia
- C.
England
- D.
India
Correct Answer
B. RussiaExplanation
Communism was the type of government in Russia. This is because Russia was the birthplace of the communist ideology and the first country to implement a communist government. The Bolshevik Revolution in 1917 led to the establishment of the Soviet Union, which was governed by the Communist Party. Under communism, the means of production are owned and controlled by the state, and there is no private ownership of property. Therefore, Russia is the correct answer as it aligns with the historical context of communism.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Cases tried before a court of law are two types, civil and:
- A.
Constitutional
- B.
Criminal
- C.
International
- D.
Administrative
Correct Answer
B. CriminalExplanation
Civil cases and criminal cases represent the two main categories of legal disputes. Civil cases involve disputes between individuals or organizations, often seeking monetary damages or specific performance of a contract. Criminal cases, on the other hand, involve offenses against society as a whole, where the government prosecutes individuals accused of violating criminal laws. The purpose of a criminal case is to determine guilt or innocence and, if the defendant is found guilty, to impose punishment.Rate this question:
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- 26.
By a majority vote of the members of Congress, the Congress can change provisions of the Constitution of the U.S.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Constitution of the U.S. can only be changed through a specific process outlined in Article V. This process requires the proposal of an amendment by either two-thirds of both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. The proposed amendment must then be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states. Therefore, a majority vote of the members of Congress alone cannot change provisions of the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 27.
For security, each state has a right to form a ______________.
- A.
Standing army
- B.
Militia
- C.
Private security force
- D.
National guard unit
Correct Answer
B. MilitiaExplanation
The Second Amendment to the Constitution guarantees the right of each state to "keep and bear Arms" and to maintain a "well regulated Militia." This provision reflects the framers' concern about the potential for federal overreach and the need for states to have their own means of defense. A militia is a body of citizens organized for military service, typically used for emergency situations or to supplement regular armed forces.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The electoral vote for President is counted in the presence of two bodies. Name them:
- A.
The Supreme Court and the Cabinet
- B.
The Senate and the Supreme Court
- C.
The House of Representatives and the Senate
- D.
The Electoral College and the Supreme Court
Correct Answer
C. The House of Representatives and the SenateExplanation
The counting of the electoral votes for President is a formal process outlined in the 12th Amendment. It takes place in a joint session of Congress, where both the House of Representatives and the Senate are present. The Vice President, in their role as President of the Senate, presides over the session and oversees the counting of the votes.Rate this question:
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- 29.
If no candidate for President receives a majority of the electoral vote, who decides who will become President?
- A.
The Senate
- B.
The Supreme Court
- C.
The House of Representatives
- D.
The Electoral College
Correct Answer
C. The House of RepresentativesExplanation
If no presidential candidate receives a majority of the electoral votes, the 12th Amendment provides a contingency procedure. The House of Representatives is then responsible for choosing the President from among the top three candidates who received the most electoral votes. Each state delegation in the House casts one vote, and a majority of states (at least 26 out of 50) is required to elect the President.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Of the original 13 states, the one with the largest representation in the first Congress was ____________________.
- A.
Massachusetts
- B.
Pennsylvania
- C.
New York
- D.
Virginia
Correct Answer
D. VirginiaExplanation
Virginia had the largest population among the original 13 states at the time of the first Congress. The number of representatives a state has in the House of Representatives is based on its population, so Virginia had the most representatives. Virginia also held significant political influence during the founding era, with prominent figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison playing key roles in the formation of the new nation.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Of which branch of government is the Speaker of the House a part?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. LegislativeExplanation
The Speaker of the House is a part of the Legislative branch of government. This branch is responsible for making laws and includes the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Speaker of the House is the leader of the House of Representatives and is responsible for presiding over debates, maintaining order, and representing the House to the executive and judicial branches. They play a crucial role in the legislative process and are elected by members of the House.Rate this question:
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- 32.
In case the President is unable to perform the duties of his office, who assumes them?
- A.
The Speaker of the House
- B.
The Secretary of State
- C.
The Vice President
- D.
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Correct Answer
A. The Speaker of the HouseExplanation
The 25th Amendment to the Constitution clarifies the line of presidential succession. If the President dies, resigns, is removed from office, or is unable to discharge the powers and duties of the presidency, the Vice President immediately assumes those powers and duties. This ensures a smooth and immediate transition of power, preventing any disruption in the functioning of the executive branch.Rate this question:
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- 33.
“Involuntary servitude” is permitted in the U.S. upon conviction of a crime.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In the United States, involuntary servitude is allowed as a form of punishment upon conviction of a crime. This means that individuals who are found guilty of committing a crime can be legally required to perform labor or provide services against their will. This practice is justified as a means of rehabilitation and retribution for the crime committed. However, it is important to note that there are legal limitations and protections in place to prevent the abuse or exploitation of individuals subjected to involuntary servitude.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The right of a citizen to vote shall not be denied on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Which amendment guarantees this right?
- A.
13th Amendment
- B.
14th Amendment
- C.
15th Amendment
- D.
19th Amendment
Correct Answer
C. 15th AmendmentExplanation
The 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1870, was a key part of the Reconstruction Amendments that followed the Civil War. This amendment specifically granted African American men the right to vote by prohibiting any state from denying or abridging the right to vote on the basis of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Despite this legal protection, discriminatory practices such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and other means were used to prevent African Americans from voting, particularly in the Southern states, until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 reinforced these protections.Rate this question:
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- 35.
How many amendments does the U.S. Constitution have?
- A.
12
- B.
13
- C.
15
- D.
27
Correct Answer
D. 27Explanation
The U.S. Constitution has been amended 27 times since it was written in 1787. The first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791 and are designed to protect individual freedoms such as free speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial. Since then, 17 additional amendments have been added, addressing a variety of issues including the abolition of slavery (13th Amendment), the establishment of an income tax (16th Amendment), the right for women to vote (19th Amendment), and changes to the presidential terms (22nd Amendment). The most recent amendment, the 27th Amendment, ratified in 1992, deals with congressional pay raises and limits when such changes can take effect.Rate this question:
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