American History TAKS Quiz-early America Through Reconstruction
The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) is a systematized test developed by Pearson Educational Measurement. This test is conducted to assess 3 to 11-grade student's reading and writing skills which include all subjects. This quiz has been developed to test your knowledge of American History from Early America. So, let's try out the quiz All the best!
- 1.
Written by Thomas Jefferson, Signed and ratified by the 13 colonies on July 4, 1776.
- A.
Constitution
- B.
Federalist Papers
- C.
Magna Carta
- D.
Declaration of Independance
Correct Answer
D. Declaration of IndependanceExplanation
The given correct answer is "Declaration of Independence." This document was written by Thomas Jefferson and was signed and ratified by the 13 colonies on July 4, 1776. The Declaration of Independence marked the formal separation of the American colonies from Great Britain and laid out the principles of freedom, equality, and self-governance that would shape the newly formed United States of America.Rate this question:
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- 2.
An act of protesting the tax on several daily items by colonists. In this act tea was thrown overboard in to a harbor.
- A.
Battle of Lexington
- B.
Boston Tea Party
- C.
Boston Massacre
- D.
Boston Red Socks
Correct Answer
B. Boston Tea PartyExplanation
The correct answer is Boston Tea Party. The Boston Tea Party was an act of protest by the American colonists against the British government's tax on tea. In this event, colonists disguised as Native Americans threw several chests of tea into the Boston Harbor as a form of resistance. This act became a significant event in the lead-up to the American Revolution.Rate this question:
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- 3.
This branch of government makes the laws. Congress is made up of the House of Representatives and The Senate.
- A.
President
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
- D.
Legislative
Correct Answer
D. LegislativeExplanation
The correct answer is "Legislative." The legislative branch of government is responsible for making laws. Congress, which is composed of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is part of the legislative branch. The role of this branch is to propose, debate, and pass laws that govern the nation.Rate this question:
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- 4.
System that keeps all three branches of governement accountable to each other and prevents any one branch from gaining too much power.
- A.
Checks and balances
- B.
Honor system
- C.
Law of the land
- D.
The president's veto power
Correct Answer
A. Checks and balancesExplanation
Checks and balances is the correct answer because it refers to a system that ensures each branch of government is accountable to the others and prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful. This system allows each branch to limit the powers of the other branches through various mechanisms such as veto power, judicial review, and legislative oversight. It promotes a balance of power and prevents the abuse of authority, ensuring that no branch of government becomes dominant over the others.Rate this question:
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- 5.
We have done everything that could be done to avert the storm which is now coming on. We have petitioned. . . . Our petitions have been slighted. . . . There is no longer any room for hope. If we wish to be free . . . we must fight! — Patrick Henry, 1775 This quote is refering to what?
- A.
Civil War
- B.
French and Indian War
- C.
American Revolution
- D.
World War I
Correct Answer
C. American RevolutionExplanation
The quote by Patrick Henry is referring to the American Revolution. The mention of petitioning and the need to fight for freedom suggests that the quote is about a struggle for independence and the desire to break free from an oppressive power. The American Revolution was a war fought by the American colonies against Great Britain in order to gain their independence.Rate this question:
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- 6.
During the American Revolution, what role did George Washington play?
- A.
President
- B.
Commander in Chief
- C.
General
- D.
King
Correct Answer
B. Commander in ChiefExplanation
George Washington played the role of Commander in Chief during the American Revolution. As the leader of the Continental Army, he was responsible for overseeing the military strategy and operations of the American forces. This role involved making crucial decisions, coordinating with other military leaders, and providing overall direction to the troops. Washington's leadership and strategic abilities were instrumental in the eventual victory of the American colonies against the British.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Predecessor to the Constitution, established a weak central governement.
- A.
Bill of Rights
- B.
Federalist Papers
- C.
Articles of the Confederation
- D.
Constitution
Correct Answer
C. Articles of the ConfederationExplanation
The Articles of the Confederation were the predecessor to the Constitution and established a weak central government. This document was essentially the first constitution of the United States, but it had several limitations. It created a loose alliance of states with a weak central government that lacked the power to tax, regulate trade, or enforce laws. As a result, the Articles of the Confederation proved to be ineffective in governing the country, leading to the need for a stronger central government, which was eventually established through the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of press, freedom of assembly(protests) freedom of petition (you can speak out against the government or tell the government they are doing wrong)
- A.
Preamble to the Constitution
- B.
Amendment 4
- C.
Amendment 1
- D.
Amendment 3
Correct Answer
C. Amendment 1Explanation
Amendment 1 of the Constitution guarantees the freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of press, freedom of assembly (protests), and freedom of petition. These rights are considered fundamental to a democratic society and are crucial for the protection of individual liberties. Amendment 1 ensures that citizens have the right to express their opinions, practice any religion, publish information without censorship, peacefully assemble, and petition the government for grievances. It is one of the most important amendments in the Constitution as it safeguards the core principles of freedom and democracy.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The 4th Amendment says:
- A.
Government can’t force you to house a solider in your home (this goes back to the Brits making the colonist house soldiers during the American Revolution)
- B.
Gun ownership. As a people we can establish a militia (civilian army) and be able to own and carry guns
- C.
Ensures you get a speed trial, a lawyer and get to be judged by a jury. This is where the Miranda rights(what they tell you when you get arrested) comes from
- D.
The cops can’t search/arrest you without a warrant or probably cause. If they do what the find is illegal and can’t be used against you.
Correct Answer
D. The cops can’t search/arrest you without a warrant or probably cause. If they do what the find is illegal and can’t be used against you.Explanation
The 4th Amendment of the US Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. It states that police cannot search or arrest someone without a warrant or probable cause. If they do, any evidence obtained from the illegal search or arrest is considered illegal and cannot be used against the individual in court. This amendment ensures that individuals have the right to privacy and protects them from arbitrary government intrusion. It is a fundamental protection of civil liberties in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 10.
This was a war over the land of America, and who was to own it. The British or the French.
- A.
French and Indian War
- B.
WWI
- C.
WWII
- D.
Americna Revolution
Correct Answer
A. French and Indian WarExplanation
The correct answer is the French and Indian War. This war was fought between the British and the French over control of the land in America. The conflict also involved Native American tribes who allied with either side. The war ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1763, which resulted in the French losing their North American territories to the British.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The legal or illegal movement of people between one country and another.
- A.
Inenvention
- B.
Imperialism
- C.
Integration
- D.
Immigration
Correct Answer
D. ImmigrationExplanation
Immigration refers to the legal or illegal movement of people between one country and another. It involves individuals relocating to a different country with the intention of permanently residing there. Immigration can occur due to various reasons such as seeking better economic opportunities, escaping political instability, or reuniting with family members. It is a significant aspect of globalization and can have both positive and negative impacts on the countries involved, including cultural diversity, economic growth, and social tensions.Rate this question:
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- 12.
First battle of the civil war.
- A.
Gettysburg
- B.
Midway
- C.
Ft. Sumter
- D.
Grant
Correct Answer
C. Ft. SumterExplanation
The correct answer is Ft. Sumter. Ft. Sumter was the location of the first battle of the Civil War. It was a Confederate victory and marked the beginning of the war.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Wanted to abolish slavery and switch to a totally industrialized way of life.
- A.
North
- B.
South
Correct Answer
A. NorthExplanation
The North wanted to abolish slavery and switch to a totally industrialized way of life. This suggests that the North was more progressive and forward-thinking compared to the South. They recognized the moral and economic disadvantages of slavery and believed in the benefits of industrialization. The North's desire to abolish slavery aligns with the abolitionist movement that was gaining momentum during that time. Additionally, their focus on industrialization indicates their willingness to embrace new technologies and modernize their society.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Wanted to give more power to the states and insisted that slaves were necesarry to continue thier agricultural way of life.
- A.
North
- B.
South
Correct Answer
B. SouthExplanation
The correct answer is South. The South wanted to give more power to the states and believed that slaves were necessary to maintain their agricultural way of life. This indicates that the South supported states' rights and the institution of slavery, which were key factors in the divide between the North and the South during the time leading up to the American Civil War.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Commanded the confederate army during the Civil War
- A.
Robert E. Lee
- B.
Ulysses S. Grant
- C.
George Washington
- D.
Paul Revere
Correct Answer
A. Robert E. LeeExplanation
Robert E. Lee is the correct answer because he commanded the Confederate army during the Civil War. He was a prominent general and military strategist for the Confederate States of America, leading their forces against the Union army. Lee's leadership and tactical skills played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the Civil War.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Ulysses S. Grant
- A.
Rode through the colonies yelling, "The British are coming!"
- B.
Commanded the US Troops during WWI
- C.
Commanded the Americans during the American Revolution
- D.
Led the Union Army during the Civil War
Correct Answer
D. Led the Union Army during the Civil WarExplanation
Ulysses S. Grant is known for leading the Union Army during the Civil War. He was a prominent military leader and played a crucial role in the Union's victory over the Confederacy. Grant's strategic brilliance and determination helped him win several significant battles, including the capture of Vicksburg and the defeat of General Robert E. Lee at Appomattox Courthouse. His leadership and military achievements during the Civil War solidified his place in history as one of the most successful Union generals.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Power is seperated between the state governments and the national governements. This is a basic principal of the US Constitution.
- A.
Capitalism
- B.
Federalism
- C.
Imperialism
- D.
Communism
Correct Answer
B. FederalismExplanation
Federalism is the correct answer because it refers to the system of government in which power is divided between the national government and state governments. This principle is a fundamental aspect of the US Constitution, where certain powers are delegated to the federal government while others are reserved for the individual states. This division of power allows for a balance between centralized authority and regional autonomy, ensuring that both levels of government have their own spheres of influence and responsibilities.Rate this question:
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- 18.
"We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal..." Where is this quote from?
- A.
The Constitution
- B.
The Federalist Papers
- C.
FDR Innagural Speech
- D.
Declaration of Independance
Correct Answer
D. Declaration of IndependanceExplanation
This quote is from the Declaration of Independence. It is a famous phrase that emphasizes the belief that all individuals are inherently equal and have certain unalienable rights. The Declaration of Independence was a document adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies as independent states and explaining the reasons for their separation from Great Britain.Rate this question:
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- 19.
" We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union..."
- A.
Declaration of Independance
- B.
Preamble to the Constutition
- C.
Federalist Papers
- D.
Bill of Rights
Correct Answer
B. Preamble to the ConstutitionExplanation
The given excerpt, "We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union..." is the opening line of the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States. The Preamble serves as an introduction to the Constitution and outlines the goals and purposes of the document. It emphasizes the collective power and authority of the American people in establishing a stronger and more unified nation.Rate this question:
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- 20.
"This is a day that will live in infamy..."
- A.
Woodrow Wilson speaking of his 14 point plan
- B.
King George II on the Boston Tea Party
- C.
Robert Kennedy on his brother John's death
- D.
Franklin Roosevelt on the bombing of Pearl Harbor
Correct Answer
D. Franklin Roosevelt on the bombing of Pearl HarborExplanation
The given quote, "This is a day that will live in infamy," is a famous line from Franklin Roosevelt's speech following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. This quote is significant because it expresses the gravity and lasting impact of the event. Roosevelt's speech marked the United States' entry into World War II and is remembered as a pivotal moment in history.Rate this question:
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- 21.
"Four score and seven years ago, our forefathers brought forth on this continent a new nation concieved in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
- A.
Abraham Lincon's Gettysburg Address
- B.
George Washington's innagural address
- C.
Martin Luther King's speech at the Washington Monument
- D.
The Bill of Rights.
Correct Answer
A. Abraham Lincon's Gettysburg AddressExplanation
The given quote is from Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. In this speech, Lincoln reflects on the founding principles of the United States and the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Civil War. He emphasizes the importance of equality and the dedication to preserving a nation built on liberty. The Gettysburg Address is one of the most well-known speeches in American history and is often regarded as a defining moment in the nation's history.Rate this question:
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- 22.
"Give me liberty or give me death..."
- A.
Crispus Attackus during the American Revolution
- B.
Ulysses S. Grant on the Civil War
- C.
George Washington on his Presidency
- D.
Patrick Henry during the American Revolution
Correct Answer
D. Patrick Henry during the American RevolutionExplanation
Patrick Henry uttered the famous phrase "Give me liberty or give me death" during the American Revolution. This statement reflects his strong belief in the importance of freedom and his willingness to sacrifice his life for it. Henry's words were spoken in a speech to the Virginia Convention in 1775, urging his fellow colonists to take up arms against British rule and fight for their independence. His impassioned plea for liberty became an influential rallying cry for the American Revolution and remains a powerful symbol of the fight for freedom.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2022Quiz Edited by
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Feb 07, 2008Quiz Created by
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