1.
What do we call the introductory paragraph of the US Constitution?
Correct Answer
A. Preamble
Explanation
The introductory paragraph of the US Constitution is called the Preamble. It serves as an introduction and states the purpose and goals of the Constitution. It outlines the principles of the government and establishes the authority of the document. The Preamble is not to be confused with the Articles, which are the main body of the Constitution, or the Amendments, which are changes or additions made to the Constitution over time. The option "Bill of Indictments" is unrelated to the question and can be eliminated as a possible answer.
2.
Which of the following is not true about the preamble?
Correct Answer
D. It defines the branches of government and their powers
Explanation
The preamble of the US Constitution serves as the introductory paragraph, establishing that the authority of government comes from the people and outlining the six goals of the US Government. However, it does not define the branches of government and their powers. This is done in other sections of the Constitution, such as Article I, II, and III.
3.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "more perfect union?"
Correct Answer
B. States working together
Explanation
The phrase "more perfect union" in the Preamble refers to the idea of states working together. It suggests that the goal of the Constitution is to create a stronger and more unified relationship among the states, promoting cooperation and collaboration for the betterment of the nation as a whole. This concept emphasizes the importance of unity and the need for states to come together for the common good.
4.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "establish justice?"
Correct Answer
B. To have a court system that applies laws fairly
Explanation
The phrase "establish justice" in the Preamble refers to the establishment of a court system that applies laws fairly. This means that the court system should ensure equal treatment and impartiality when interpreting and enforcing laws. It emphasizes the importance of providing justice to all individuals, regardless of their social status or background.
5.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "ensure domestic tranquility?"
Correct Answer
A. Look after peaceful interactions within the country
Explanation
The phrase "ensure domestic tranquility" in the Preamble means to maintain peace and harmony within the country. It implies the responsibility of the government to promote and protect peaceful interactions among the citizens, ensuring that conflicts are resolved peacefully and that law and order are maintained. This involves creating an environment where people can live without fear of violence or unrest, and where their rights and freedoms are protected.
6.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "provide for the common defense?"
Correct Answer
D. Have a military (or militia)
Explanation
The phrase "provide for the common defense" in the Preamble refers to the responsibility of the government to establish and maintain a military or militia force. This means that the government should ensure the protection and security of the country and its citizens from external threats and attacks. It emphasizes the importance of having a strong defense system to safeguard the nation and its interests.
7.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "promote the general welfare?"
Correct Answer
A. Endorse the idea of general well-being and looking after the common good
Explanation
The phrase "promote the general welfare" in the Preamble refers to endorsing the idea of general well-being and looking after the common good. It means that the government should work towards the betterment and welfare of all citizens, ensuring their overall well-being and promoting the common good of society as a whole. This includes taking actions and implementing policies that benefit the majority of the population and prioritize the welfare of the people.
8.
Which of the following best describes what is meant when the Preamble says, "secure the blessings of liberty?"
Correct Answer
A. Encourage and protect our natural rights
Explanation
The phrase "secure the blessings of liberty" in the Preamble means to encourage and protect our natural rights. This implies that the purpose of the government is to ensure that individuals have the freedom to exercise their inherent rights and that these rights are safeguarded from any infringement. The government's role is to create an environment where citizens can enjoy their rights without fear of oppression or unjust limitations.
9.
What is the purpose of the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution?
Correct Answer
A. Serves as an introduction and purpose for the document.
Explanation
The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution serves as an introduction and purpose for the document. It outlines the goals and objectives of the Constitution, stating that it is established 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 for the people. It sets the tone for the rest of the Constitution and provides a framework for the government's responsibilities and obligations to its citizens.
10.
What phrase in the Constitution designates the framer's intent to have our government be a form of representative government?
Correct Answer
A. "We the people"
Explanation
The phrase "We the people" in the Constitution designates the framers' intent to have our government be a form of representative government. This phrase emphasizes the idea that the power of the government comes from the people, and that the government exists to serve and represent the interests of the people. It highlights the democratic principles of popular sovereignty and the idea that the government should be accountable to the citizens it serves.