1.
A body of electors chosen to elect the President and Vice President of the United States:
Correct Answer
C. The Electoral College
Explanation
The Electoral College is a body of electors chosen to elect the President and Vice President of the United States. It is a system where each state is allocated a certain number of electors based on their representation in Congress. These electors then cast their votes for the candidates who won the popular vote in their respective states. The candidate who receives a majority of electoral votes (at least 270 out of 538) becomes the President. This system was established by the Founding Fathers as a compromise between a direct popular vote and a vote by Congress, ensuring a balance between the will of the people and the interests of the states.
2.
"We the People of the United
States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice,
insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense,
promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to
ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution
for the United States of America." This is the powerful, single sentence introduction to which historic document:
Correct Answer
C. The Constitution
Explanation
The given sentence is the introduction to the Constitution of the United States. It outlines the purpose of the Constitution, which is to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to the people of the United States and future generations.
3.
Describes the legislative branch of American government
Correct Answer
A. Article I
Explanation
Article I of the American Constitution describes the legislative branch of the government. This article establishes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the Congress, which is composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives. It outlines the qualifications and terms of office for members of Congress, as well as the process for passing laws and the powers granted to Congress. Overall, Article I provides the framework for the legislative branch and its role in the American government.
4.
Described the executive branch of American government
Correct Answer
B. Article II
Explanation
Article II of the American Constitution describes the executive branch of the government. This article outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States, including the authority to enforce laws, command the military, and make treaties. It also establishes the qualifications and term limits for the presidency, as well as the process for electing the president. In summary, Article II is dedicated to outlining the role and functions of the executive branch in the American government.
5.
Describes the judicial branch of American government
Correct Answer
C. Article III
Explanation
Article III of the United States Constitution describes the judicial branch of the American government. It establishes the Supreme Court as the highest court in the land and gives Congress the power to create lower federal courts. This article outlines the jurisdiction of the federal courts, including cases involving the Constitution, federal laws, and disputes between states. It also guarantees that judges serve for life, as long as they exhibit good behavior, ensuring their independence from political influence. Overall, Article III provides the framework for the organization and powers of the judicial branch in the American government.
6.
Describes the ratification of the constitution:
Correct Answer
E. Article VII
Explanation
Article VII of the Constitution describes the process of ratification. It states that the Constitution would become effective once it is ratified by conventions in at least nine of the thirteen states. This article outlines the procedures for ratification and emphasizes the importance of popular sovereignty, as it requires the approval of the people through state conventions rather than state legislatures. By including Article VII, the Constitution ensured that it would only come into effect if it had broad support from the states, establishing a strong foundation for the new government.
7.
Lists several general provisions, including the assumption of all debts and contracts made by the government under the Articles of Confederation; also includes Supremacy Clause and the President's Oath of Office:
Correct Answer
D. Article VI
Explanation
Article VI of the United States Constitution lists several general provisions, including the assumption of all debts and contracts made by the government under the Articles of Confederation. It also includes the Supremacy Clause, which establishes that the Constitution and federal laws take precedence over state laws. Additionally, Article VI includes the President's Oath of Office, which outlines the requirements for the President to swear an oath to support and defend the Constitution.
8.
Makes an act a crime and punishes people who committed that act before the law was passed. (Hint: Congress may not pass bills of this type.)
Correct Answer
A. Ex post facto law
Explanation
An ex post facto law is a type of legislation that retroactively criminalizes an act and imposes punishment on individuals who committed that act before the law was enacted. This means that someone can be punished for an action that was not considered a crime at the time it was committed. It is important to note that the Constitution prohibits the passing of ex post facto laws by Congress, meaning that they cannot create legislation of this nature.
9.
According to division of powers, which has the power to coin money?
Correct Answer
B. National Government
Explanation
The correct answer is National Government. According to the division of powers, the national government has the authority to coin money. This power is granted to the national government to ensure uniformity and stability in the currency system across the entire country. State governments do not have the power to coin money, as this is a responsibility reserved for the central authority. Concurrent powers, on the other hand, refer to powers that are shared by both the state and national governments, but coinage is not one of them.
10.
Division of Powers places the burden of enforcing laws upon which level(s) of government?
Correct Answer
C. Concurrent Powers
Explanation
Concurrent Powers refers to the division of powers between the state and national government, where both levels of government have the authority to enforce laws. This means that the burden of enforcing laws is shared by both the state and national government.
11.
Providing for education is a responsibility of which level of government, according to the Divisions of Powers:
Correct Answer
A. State Government
Explanation
According to the Divisions of Powers, providing for education is a responsibility of the State Government. This means that it is the responsibility of the state-level government to oversee and manage the education system within their jurisdiction. This includes funding, establishing educational policies, and ensuring access to quality education for their citizens. The National Government may also have a role in education, but ultimately, the primary responsibility lies with the State Government.
12.
According to this idea, each branch of government may check, or limit, the power of the other two. (Hint: In this way, the three branches become somewhat interdependent, thus assuring that the power among all three will remain balanced.)
Correct Answer
B. System Of Checks and Balances
Explanation
The correct answer is "System Of Checks and Balances" because this idea refers to the principle in which each branch of government has the ability to limit the power of the other two branches. This system ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and maintains a balance of power among the three branches. The branches become interdependent, as they rely on each other to prevent any branch from abusing its power. This system is an essential component of the United States' constitutional framework.
13.
The writ's sole function is to release an individual from unlawful
imprisonment; through this use it has come to be regarded as the great
writ of liberty. The writ tests only whether a prisoner has been
accorded due process, not whether he is guilty.
Correct Answer
C. Writ of habeas corpus
Explanation
The correct answer is writ of habeas corpus. The explanation for this is that the writ of habeas corpus is a legal action that allows individuals who are imprisoned to challenge the legality of their detention. Its main purpose is to ensure that individuals are not unlawfully imprisoned and that they are given their right to due process. It does not determine the guilt or innocence of the person, but rather focuses on the legality of their imprisonment.
14.
A law giving out punishment without a court trial (it is unconstitutional):
Correct Answer
B. Bill of attainder
Explanation
A bill of attainder refers to a law that imposes punishment on an individual or a group without a court trial. This practice is considered unconstitutional because it violates the principle of due process, which guarantees the right to a fair trial. By bypassing the judicial system, a bill of attainder undermines the fundamental rights and protections afforded to individuals accused of a crime. Therefore, it is the correct answer in this context.
15.
According to the principle of separation of powers, the power of the government is given to these three branches:
Correct Answer
B. Executive, Legislative, Judicial
Explanation
The principle of separation of powers states that the power of the government should be divided among different branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. The three branches mentioned in the answer - Executive, Legislative, and Judicial - represent the three main functions of government. The Executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, the Legislative branch creates laws, and the Judicial branch interprets laws. This division of power ensures a system of checks and balances, promoting accountability and preventing any one branch from abusing its power.
16.
This branch of government may interpret laws and treaties, declare laws unconstitutional, declare executive acts unconstitutional:
Correct Answer
A. Judicial
Explanation
The branch of government that has the authority to interpret laws and treaties, declare laws unconstitutional, and declare executive acts unconstitutional is the judicial branch. This branch is responsible for ensuring that laws and actions taken by the legislative and executive branches align with the constitution. They have the power to review and interpret laws and make decisions on their constitutionality.
17.
This branch of government has the power to pardon federal offenders, appoint federal judges, veto laws, suggest legislation:
Correct Answer
C. Executive
Explanation
The correct answer is Executive. The executive branch of government has the power to pardon federal offenders, appoint federal judges, veto laws, and suggest legislation. This branch is responsible for enforcing and administering laws, as well as representing the country both domestically and internationally. The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch and holds significant powers and responsibilities within this branch.
18.
This branch of government controls money, may impeach judges, regulates jurisdiction, may override veto, may impeach President, Vice-President and executive officers:
Correct Answer
B. Legislative
Explanation
The correct answer is Legislative. The legislative branch of government is responsible for controlling the money, regulating jurisdiction, and having the power to impeach judges, the President, Vice-President, and executive officers. They also have the authority to override a veto, which is a power that allows them to pass a law even if the President has vetoed it.
19.
This Amendment of the Constitution guarantees important freedoms; religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, right to assemble and right to petition.
Correct Answer
A. First Amendment
Explanation
The First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees important freedoms such as religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, right to assemble, and right to petition. This means that individuals have the right to practice any religion, express their opinions freely, publish information without censorship, gather peacefully, and address grievances to the government. The First Amendment is crucial in protecting the fundamental rights and liberties of individuals in the United States.
20.
Guarantees the right to keep and bear arms:
Correct Answer
B. Second Amendment
Explanation
The Second Amendment guarantees the right to keep and bear arms. This means that individuals have the constitutional right to own firearms for self-defense and other lawful purposes. It is an important part of American culture and has been the subject of much debate and interpretation. The Second Amendment is seen by many as a fundamental right that helps protect other rights and ensures the ability of citizens to defend themselves and their freedoms.
21.
Protects people from unreasonable search and seizure:
Correct Answer
C. Fourth Amendment
Explanation
The Fourth Amendment protects people from unreasonable search and seizure. It ensures that individuals have the right to privacy and prohibits law enforcement from conducting searches or seizures without a valid warrant or probable cause. This amendment is crucial in safeguarding citizens' civil liberties and preventing arbitrary intrusion by the government. It establishes the principle that individuals should be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, and that any search or seizure must be reasonable and based on specific evidence.
22.
This amendment guarantees that an individual must not be required to self-incriminate themselves in a criminal trial:
Correct Answer
B. Fifth Amendment
Explanation
The Fifth Amendment guarantees that an individual cannot be compelled to incriminate themselves in a criminal trial. This means that a person has the right to remain silent and cannot be forced to testify against themselves. This protection is known as the right against self-incrimination and is a fundamental aspect of the legal system to ensure fairness and prevent coercion or abuse of power by the government.
23.
This amendment abolished slavery:
Correct Answer
C. Thirteenth Amendment
Explanation
The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. It was ratified in 1865, following the end of the Civil War. This amendment declared that "neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States." The Thirteenth Amendment was a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights and equality, marking the end of legal slavery in the country.
24.
Forbids President to serve more than two terms (each term being 4 years, for a total of 8 years for the two terms):
Correct Answer
C. Amendment 22
Explanation
Amendment 22 is the correct answer because it prohibits the President from serving more than two terms. Each term is limited to four years, resulting in a maximum of eight years for the two terms combined. This amendment was ratified in 1951, in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's four-term presidency, to ensure that no President can hold office for an extended period and to maintain a balance of power within the executive branch.
25.
A two thirds vote of both houses of Congress or by approval of a national convention called by Congress at the request of two thirds of the states ... these are the two methods by which the following may take place:
Correct Answer
B. Proposition of an amendment
Explanation
The correct answer is "Proposition of an amendment." This means that a two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress or by approval of a national convention called by Congress at the request of two-thirds of the states can be used to propose an amendment to the Constitution. This process allows for changes or additions to be made to the Constitution, reflecting the evolving needs and values of the nation.
26.
Qualifications for this office are as follows: must be at least 30 years of age, must have been a citizen of the US for at least 9 years, must live or have residence in the state from which s/he is elected:
Correct Answer
A. Senator
Explanation
The qualifications listed for this office include being at least 30 years old, being a citizen of the US for at least 9 years, and living or having residence in the state from which the person is elected. The only office that meets all of these qualifications is a Senator.
27.
A bill becomes a law in the following manner: it is introduced into either the House or the Senate; it is then referred to a Senate or House Committee or Subcommittee and subsequently "Reported By Full Committee"; then floor action is taken after which it is subject to final approval by BOTH the House and the Senate. The final step before a bill becomes a law is for the President to Sign the Bill into law. QUESTION: If the President vetoes the bill, what must take place for the bill to still go into law?
Correct Answer
A. Two thirds vote in both houses
Explanation
If the President vetoes the bill, the bill can still go into law if there is a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress. This means that two-thirds of the members in both the House of Representatives and the Senate must vote in favor of the bill, overriding the President's veto. This is a constitutional requirement for overriding a presidential veto and allows Congress to pass the bill into law without the President's approval. Ratification by the Vice President and a plea to the houses by the Speaker of the House are not the correct steps for a bill to go into law after being vetoed by the President.
28.
This term refers to putting a bill aside and never referring to it again:
Correct Answer
C. Pigeonholed
Explanation
Pigeonholed refers to the act of setting aside a bill or proposal and never addressing or discussing it again. This term is often used in the context of legislative processes, where a bill may be intentionally ignored or shelved by those in power to prevent it from progressing or being passed into law. By pigeonholing a bill, it effectively becomes stagnant and is unlikely to be revisited or acted upon in the future.
29.
Method of delay in which Senators talk for hours creating a delay that prevents a bill from coming to a vote:
Correct Answer
B. Filibuster
Explanation
A filibuster is a method of delay in which Senators talk for hours, often using lengthy speeches, in order to prevent a bill from coming to a vote. By continuously speaking, they can effectively stall the legislative process and prevent the bill from moving forward. This tactic is often used by Senators who oppose a particular bill and want to prevent it from becoming law.
30.
Action in which the President refuses to sign a bill for a period of ten days; if the circumstances are such that Congress is not in session or adjourns during this time, the bill is vetoed:
Correct Answer
A. Pocket veto
Explanation
A pocket veto refers to the action taken by the President when they refuse to sign a bill within a period of ten days, while Congress is not in session or adjourns during this time. This results in the bill being effectively vetoed without the President having to officially reject it. The term "pocket" refers to the President's ability to simply keep the bill in their pocket, allowing it to expire without any further action.
31.
Cloture rule is a senate rule in which a three-fifths vote can do which of the following:
Correct Answer
C. Limit debate and end a filibuster.
Explanation
The cloture rule in the Senate allows for a three-fifths vote to limit debate and end a filibuster. A filibuster is a tactic used by senators to prevent a vote on a bill by speaking for an extended period of time. The cloture rule is used to bring an end to a filibuster and proceed with a vote on the bill. It requires a three-fifths vote, typically 60 out of 100 senators, to invoke cloture and limit debate. Therefore, the correct answer is that the cloture rule can limit debate and end a filibuster.
32.
This court is at the top of the Federal Court System. It is called the highest court in the land.
Correct Answer
B. Supreme Court
Explanation
The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land and is located at the top of the Federal Court System. It is responsible for interpreting the Constitution and making final decisions on important legal issues. The Supreme Court has the power to review decisions made by lower courts and has the final say in matters of federal law. Its decisions are binding and have a significant impact on the legal system of the United States.
33.
Choose the best answer to this question: Which is true of the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court?
Correct Answer
C. It has both original jurisdiction and appellate jurisdiction.
Explanation
The correct answer is that the Supreme Court has both original jurisdiction and appellate jurisdiction. This means that the Supreme Court has the authority to hear cases for the first time (original jurisdiction) and also has the power to review and hear appeals from lower courts (appellate jurisdiction). This dual jurisdiction allows the Supreme Court to play a crucial role in interpreting the law and ensuring its uniform application throughout the United States.
34.
The federal courts where cases are first heard, and which handle the largest share of federal court caseload, are known as:
Correct Answer
B. District Courts
Explanation
District Courts are the federal courts where cases are first heard and they handle the largest share of the federal court caseload. These courts have original jurisdiction over most federal cases, including both civil and criminal matters. District Courts are located in various geographical divisions across the United States and are responsible for conducting trials, resolving disputes, and interpreting federal laws. They play a crucial role in the federal judicial system and serve as the initial point of entry for most federal cases.
35.
The Commission on Civil Rights was established in this year:
Correct Answer
B. 1957
Explanation
The Commission on Civil Rights was established in 1957. This is the correct answer because it was in this year that the U.S. Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, which created the Commission on Civil Rights. The purpose of the commission was to investigate and report on issues related to civil rights and discrimination in the United States. It played a crucial role in advancing civil rights during the Civil Rights Movement and continues to address civil rights issues to this day.
36.
The Civil Rights Movement arguably begin in 1943 when this brave and determined black seamstress refused to give up her seat on the bus to a white passenger.
Correct Answer
A. Rosa Parks
Explanation
Rosa Parks is the correct answer because she is widely recognized as a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1955, she refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott and becoming a symbol of resistance against racial segregation. Her act of defiance and the subsequent boycott played a significant role in the advancement of civil rights and the desegregation of public transportation in the United States.
37.
It is a legislative or executive act by which a state restores those who
may have been guilty of an offense against it to the positions of
innocent persons.
Correct Answer
B. Amnesty
Explanation
Amnesty is the correct answer because it refers to a legislative or executive act by which a state forgives or pardons individuals who may have committed offenses against it, restoring them to the status of innocent persons. This act is typically done to promote reconciliation, peace, or social justice within a society. An amnesty can apply to a specific group of people or to a broader population, and it is often used in cases of political crimes or conflicts.
38.
It means a cessation of hostilities as a prelude to peace negotiations
Correct Answer
A. Armistice
Explanation
An armistice refers to a temporary halt in fighting or warfare between two parties. It is often used as a preliminary step towards peace negotiations, allowing both sides to cease hostilities and create a more conducive environment for peaceful discussions. This term specifically implies a temporary truce or ceasefire, indicating that the conflict is not yet fully resolved but that there is a willingness to negotiate and work towards a lasting peace agreement.
39.
The following are examples of this office: Serves as chief of state, serves as chief executive, heads the federal bureaucracy, power to issue executive orders, power to make budgets, serves as commander in chief:
Correct Answer
C. Powers and duties of the President
Explanation
The given answer, "Powers and duties of the President," is correct because the listed examples all pertain to the responsibilities and authorities of the President. The mentioned roles such as serving as chief of state, chief executive, and commander in chief are all key functions of the President. Additionally, the power to issue executive orders, make budgets, and head the federal bureaucracy are specific powers and duties associated with the President's role. Therefore, the answer accurately identifies the common theme among the examples provided.
40.
According to the Presidential line of succession, who are the next two positions in line to take the place of the Commander in Chief should the President not be available for any reason to perform his/her duties?
Correct Answer
A. First Vice-President, then Speaker of the House of Representatives
Explanation
The correct answer is First Vice-President, then Speaker of the House of Representatives. According to the Presidential line of succession, the Vice-President is first in line to take the place of the President if they are unable to perform their duties. If the Vice-President is also unavailable, then the Speaker of the House of Representatives is next in line to assume the responsibilities of the Commander in Chief.
41.
The Vice-Presidency is limited to how many terms in office?
Correct Answer
C. No limit on number of terms Vice-President can serve
Explanation
The correct answer is "No limit on number of terms Vice-President can serve." Unlike the Presidency, which is limited to two terms of four years each, there is no restriction on the number of terms a Vice-President can serve. This means that a Vice-President can potentially hold the office for an indefinite number of terms, as long as they continue to be elected or appointed.
42.
This phrase refers to an elected official who is still in office, but no longer responsive to the electorate, typically due to losing an election, retiring, or reaching the limit of term (such as the Presidency which has a two limit term).
Correct Answer
C. Lame duck
Explanation
A "lame duck" refers to an elected official who is still in office but is no longer responsive to the electorate. This typically happens when they have lost an election, retired, or reached the term limit. Lame ducks are often seen as having less power or influence because they are on their way out of office. They may be less motivated to take action or make decisions since they know they will soon be leaving their position.
43.
This is the smaller of the two houses of Congress; made up of 100 members, two from each state:
Correct Answer
C. The Senate
Explanation
The Senate is the smaller of the two houses of Congress because it is composed of 100 members, with two senators representing each state. This is in contrast to the House of Representatives, which has a larger membership based on the population of each state. The Executive Branch, on the other hand, is not a house of Congress but rather the branch of government responsible for implementing and enforcing laws.