1.
State and local goverments today employ more people than the national government.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
State and local governments employ more people than the national government because they are responsible for providing essential services and managing public affairs at the local level. State and local governments have a wide range of responsibilities, including education, healthcare, public safety, transportation, and infrastructure. These responsibilities require a significant workforce to ensure that the needs of the local population are met effectively. In contrast, the national government focuses on broader issues such as defense, foreign policy, and national programs, which may not require as many employees as the numerous state and local government agencies combined.
2.
The United States can best be described as a/an __________________ system.
Correct Answer
B. Federalist
Explanation
The United States can best be described as a federalist system because power is divided between the national government and the individual states. The Constitution grants certain powers to the federal government, while reserving other powers to the states. This division of power allows for a balance between a strong central government and the autonomy of the states. The federalist system also allows for the coexistence of multiple levels of government, each with its own sphere of authority.
3.
Article ________ of the United States Constitution lists the powers of Congress
Correct Answer
A. One
Explanation
Article One of the United States Constitution lists the powers of Congress. This article establishes the legislative branch of the federal government and outlines the specific powers and responsibilities of Congress. It grants Congress the authority to make laws, regulate commerce, declare war, and levy taxes, among other important powers. Article One is a crucial section of the Constitution as it defines the scope and limitations of Congress's authority, ensuring a system of checks and balances within the government.
4.
Article _______ of the United States Constitution is the federal supremacy clause.
Correct Answer
D. Six
Explanation
Article Six of the United States Constitution is the federal supremacy clause. This clause establishes that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the supreme law of the land, overriding any conflicting state laws. It ensures that the federal government has ultimate authority in areas where it has jurisdiction, and it promotes uniformity and consistency in the application of laws throughout the country.
5.
The constitutions, laws and policies of the 50 states cannot contradict the United States Constitution.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land and holds authority over the constitutions, laws, and policies of the 50 states. This means that any state constitution, law, or policy that contradicts the provisions of the US Constitution is considered invalid. Therefore, it is true that the constitutions, laws, and policies of the 50 states cannot contradict the United States Constitution.
6.
The ______ amendment to the United States Constitution often is called the “states’ rights” amendment.
Correct Answer
C. 10th
Explanation
The 10th amendment to the United States Constitution is often referred to as the "states' rights" amendment because it explicitly states that any powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people. This amendment emphasizes the principle of federalism, which grants certain powers to the national government while preserving the autonomy and authority of individual states. By highlighting the importance of states' rights, the 10th amendment serves as a safeguard against excessive federal power and ensures a balance between the federal government and the states.
7.
The longest of the state constitutions in total words is the __________ Constitution.
Correct Answer
A. Alabama
Explanation
The correct answer is Alabama because its state constitution is the longest in terms of total words compared to the constitutions of California, Georgia, and Mississippi.
8.
Georgia has had ________ constitutions.
Correct Answer
C. Ten
Explanation
Georgia has had ten constitutions throughout its history. This suggests that the state has undergone significant political and legal changes over time. Each new constitution reflects the evolving needs and values of the people of Georgia, as well as the changing political landscape. The fact that there have been multiple constitutions highlights the importance of adapting and updating the foundational principles and laws that govern the state.
9.
The United States Constitution has a Bill of Rights, but the Georgia Constitution does not.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false because the Georgia Constitution does have a Bill of Rights. Like the United States Constitution, the Georgia Constitution also outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens. The Bill of Rights in the Georgia Constitution protects various rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial, among others. Therefore, the statement that the Georgia Constitution does not have a Bill of Rights is incorrect.
10.
Both the United States Congress and the Georgia General Assembly are bicameral.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because both the United States Congress and the Georgia General Assembly have two separate chambers or houses. In the case of the United States Congress, it consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, while the Georgia General Assembly is composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives as well. This bicameral structure allows for a system of checks and balances, ensuring that legislation is thoroughly debated and reviewed before being enacted into law.
11.
Both the United States Constitution and Georgia Constitution permit judicial review
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Both the United States Constitution and Georgia Constitution permit judicial review. This means that both constitutions grant the power to the judiciary to review and interpret laws and determine their constitutionality. Judicial review allows the courts to declare a law or government action as unconstitutional if it violates the principles outlined in the respective constitutions. This power is essential for ensuring the separation of powers and upholding the rule of law in both the United States and Georgia. Therefore, the statement is true.
12.
The United States Constitution has more articles than the Georgia Constitution
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Georgia Constitution actually has more articles than the United States Constitution. This means that the Georgia Constitution covers a wider range of topics and provides more detailed information about the structure and functioning of the state government.
13.
Georgia voters must approve all amendments to the state constitution
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Georgia, all amendments to the state constitution must be approved by the voters. This means that any proposed changes to the constitution cannot be implemented without the direct consent of the voters. This ensures that the power to make fundamental changes to the state's governing document lies with the people, allowing them to have a say in shaping the laws and policies that govern their state.
14.
The Georgia Constitution requires the state to have a balanced budget.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Georgia Constitution mandates that the state must maintain a balanced budget. This means that the state's expenditures cannot exceed its revenues, ensuring that the government does not accumulate excessive debt. A balanced budget requirement promotes fiscal responsibility and helps to prevent financial crises or instability within the state's economy. By adhering to this constitutional provision, Georgia aims to maintain a stable and sustainable financial system.
15.
The Governor of Georgia does not possess the power of the line-item veto.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer, which is False, is that the Governor of Georgia does possess the power of the line-item veto. The line-item veto allows the Governor to veto specific provisions or funding within a bill without vetoing the entire bill. This power gives the Governor the ability to shape the final version of legislation and exercise control over the state budget. Therefore, the statement that the Governor of Georgia does not possess the power of the line-item veto is incorrect.
16.
Georgia elects almost all its judges on a nonpartisan ballot.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Georgia, most judges are elected on a nonpartisan ballot, meaning that their political affiliation is not listed on the ballot. This system aims to ensure that judges are chosen based on their qualifications and experience rather than their party affiliation. By removing the influence of political parties, it is believed that judges can make impartial decisions and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
17.
All legislators in Georgia (both House and Senate) serve two-year terms.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because in Georgia, both the House and Senate legislators serve two-year terms. This means that they are elected by the voters every two years to represent them in the state legislature. This system allows for more frequent turnover of representatives and ensures that the legislators remain accountable to the voters.
18.
Georgia has a cabinet system like the executive branch of the federal government.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Georgia does not have a cabinet system like the executive branch of the federal government. This means that the structure and functioning of the executive branch in Georgia differ from that of the federal government.
19.
Georgia Constitution limits the number of counties at __________.
Correct Answer
D. 159
Explanation
The correct answer is 159 because the Georgia Constitution does not set a specific limit on the number of counties in the state. Therefore, there is no maximum or minimum number of counties defined by the constitution.
20.
Georgia’s first constitution became effective in ________.
Correct Answer
B. 1777
Explanation
In 1777, Georgia's first constitution became effective. This means that this was the year when the constitution was put into action and started governing the state of Georgia. It is important to note that a constitution is a fundamental document that outlines the basic principles and laws of a country or state, and its implementation marks a significant milestone in the establishment of a government.
21.
The first Georgia constitution established a state supreme court.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The first Georgia constitution did not establish a state supreme court.
22.
Georgia was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because Georgia was actually the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution. Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, followed by Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Georgia ratified the Constitution on January 2, 1788.
23.
In the second Georgia constitution slaves were counted for representation purposes as _________ of a person.
Correct Answer
C. 3/5
Explanation
In the second Georgia constitution, slaves were counted for representation purposes as three-fifths of a person. This means that for every five slaves, three of them would be counted towards the state's population for determining representation in government. This compromise was made during the drafting of the United States Constitution to address the issue of how to count slaves, as the Southern states wanted them to be included for greater representation, while the Northern states opposed it. The three-fifths compromise was a way to balance this disagreement and ultimately allowed for the continuation of slavery.
24.
At one point the Georgia legislature elected the governor.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true. In Georgia, the governor is elected by the state legislature. This means that instead of being directly elected by the people, the governor is chosen by the members of the legislature. This process is different from many other states where the governor is elected through a popular vote.
25.
The main author of the Confederate Constitution was also the author of the Georgia constitution under the confederacy.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the main author of the Confederate Constitution was indeed the author of the Georgia constitution under the confederacy. This suggests that the individual had a significant role in shaping the constitutional framework of both the Confederacy as a whole and the state of Georgia specifically.
26.
The Civil War northern troops remained in Georgia until _________.
Correct Answer
C. 1876
Explanation
The Civil War ended in 1865, but northern troops remained in Georgia until 1876. This extended presence was part of the Reconstruction era, during which the federal government sought to rebuild and reintegrate the southern states back into the Union. The presence of northern troops was meant to enforce federal policies and protect the rights of newly freed slaves. It took several years for the process of Reconstruction to fully stabilize and for southern states like Georgia to regain full autonomy.
27.
The county-unit system in Georgia tended to give disproportionate strength to urban areas such as Atlanta.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The county-unit system in Georgia did not give disproportionate strength to urban areas like Atlanta. Instead, it favored rural areas by assigning more unit votes to them. This system allowed rural counties to have more influence in elections, which often overshadowed the voting power of urban areas. Therefore, the statement that the county-unit system gave disproportionate strength to urban areas is false.
28.
In 1963 the United States Supreme Court declared the Georgia county-unit system unconstitutional.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. In 1963, the United States Supreme Court did not declare the Georgia county-unit system unconstitutional. The county-unit system was actually declared unconstitutional in 1962 by the Supreme Court in the case of Gray v. Sanders. This ruling established the principle of "one person, one vote," stating that each vote should have equal weight regardless of the geographic location.
29.
The current Georgia constitution was implemented in _______.
Correct Answer
C. 1983
Explanation
The current Georgia constitution was implemented in 1983. This means that the constitution was adopted and put into effect in that year.
30.
The Georgia Constitution can be amended in a two-step process. The first step is the proposal of an amendment by 2/3’s of both houses of the General Assembly.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Georgia Constitution can be amended in a two-step process. The first step involves the proposal of an amendment by 2/3's of both houses of the General Assembly. This means that in order for an amendment to be considered, it must be supported by a significant majority of the members in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Once the amendment is proposed, it will then move on to the second step of the process, which involves a statewide vote where a majority of the voters must approve the amendment for it to be adopted.
31.
The Governor of Georgia can veto a constitutional amendment.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Governor of Georgia cannot veto a constitutional amendment. In Georgia, the process for amending the state constitution does not involve the Governor. Instead, it requires a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of the state legislature, followed by a majority vote from the public in a statewide referendum. Once these steps are completed, the amendment becomes part of the state constitution without needing the Governor's approval or veto.
32.
In Georgia voters can get an issue on the ballot through the initiative process.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
In Georgia, voters cannot get an issue on the ballot through the initiative process. This means that the initiative process is not available for citizens to propose and place issues directly on the ballot for a vote. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
33.
The majority of proposed constitutional amendments considered by state legislatures are approved for a vote by the people of that state.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The majority of proposed constitutional amendments considered by state legislatures are approved for a vote by the people of that state. This means that most amendments that are proposed by the state legislatures go through the necessary steps and processes to be put on the ballot for the people to vote on. It suggests that the decision-making power lies with the people, as they have the final say in whether or not the proposed amendment becomes part of the state's constitution.
34.
The presiding officer of the Georgia House of Representatives is called the ______.
Correct Answer
B. Speaker
Explanation
The presiding officer of the Georgia House of Representatives is called the Speaker. This term is commonly used to refer to the individual who holds the highest position in the House and is responsible for maintaining order during debates, making rulings on procedural matters, and representing the House in its relations with the public and other governmental bodies. The Speaker is typically elected by the members of the House and plays a crucial role in shaping legislative agendas and guiding the legislative process.
35.
The Georgia General Assembly meets every other year.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Georgia General Assembly meets every year, not every other year. This means that the statement "The Georgia General Assembly meets every other year" is incorrect.
36.
The Georgia General Assembly is limited to a ________ day session
Correct Answer
C. 40
Explanation
The Georgia General Assembly is limited to a 40-day session. This means that the members of the assembly are only allowed to convene and conduct their legislative business for a period of 40 days. This limitation ensures that the legislative process remains efficient and focused, preventing unnecessary delays or prolonged sessions. It also helps to ensure that the assembly remains accountable to the citizens of Georgia by providing a fixed timeframe for their work.
37.
There are no age or residency requirements for election to the Georgia GeneralAssembly other than being a registered voter.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because there are age and residency requirements for election to the Georgia General Assembly. In order to be eligible, a person must be at least 21 years old and must have been a resident of the state for at least two years. Being a registered voter is not the only requirement for election.
38.
The Governor may call the Georgia General Assembly into special session.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Governor of Georgia has the authority to convene a special session of the Georgia General Assembly. This means that the Governor can call for a meeting of the state legislature outside of its regular session schedule. Special sessions are typically called to address urgent or specific issues that require immediate attention and cannot wait until the next regular session. During a special session, the legislature can consider and pass legislation related to the specific agenda set by the Governor. Therefore, the statement "The Governor may call the Georgia General Assembly into special session" is true.
39.
If the Georgia legislature wished to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of anindividual or an organization, the General Assembly would pass a _______________describing their achievements.
Correct Answer
A. resolution
Explanation
In this context, a resolution is the most appropriate option because it is a formal statement issued by the legislature to recognize and honor the achievements of an individual or organization. Resolutions are commonly used for non-binding decisions and declarations, making it the suitable choice for acknowledging outstanding accomplishments without enacting a new law or statute. A resolution allows the General Assembly to publicly commend and celebrate the achievements without the need for extensive legal procedures.
40.
The Georgia Constitution requires that legislation dealing with public revenues befirst introduced in the Senate, and then later in the House.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Georgia Constitution does not require that legislation dealing with public revenues be first introduced in the Senate and then later in the House. This statement is false.