U.S. Government - Chapter 1 & 2 Quiz
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What is the difference between "Politics" and "Government"?
- A.
Government is the process; Politics is the implementations of that processs
- B.
Government is the institution; Politics is the process
- C.
Government is a building; Politics is a field of study
- D.
Government is the institution; Politics refers to the debates within the institution
Correct Answer
B. Government is the institution; Politics is the processExplanation
Government refers to the institution that has the authority to make and enforce laws, while politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power in a government or to influence the government. In other words, government is the formal structure and organization of power, while politics is the way in which power is exercised and decisions are made within that structure.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Things government decides to do such as implementing taxes, defense, education, etc are:
- A.
Laws
- B.
Forms of welfare
- C.
Public policies
- D.
Wastes of money
Correct Answer
C. Public policiesExplanation
Public policies refer to the decisions and actions taken by the government to address public issues and achieve specific goals. These policies can include a wide range of actions such as implementing taxes, defense strategies, and educational reforms. They are designed to promote the well-being and interests of the public and are typically based on the government's priorities and values. Public policies are an essential tool for governments to regulate and govern society effectively.Rate this question:
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- 3.
There are three kinds of power: Legislative, Executive and Judicial. Legislative power/branch is mainly responsible for what?
- A.
Making the law
- B.
Executing and enforcing the law
- C.
Interpreting the law
- D.
Publicizing the law to the citizens
Correct Answer
A. Making the lawExplanation
The legislative power/branch is mainly responsible for making the law. This means that it is their role to propose, debate, and pass laws that govern the country. They have the authority to create new laws, amend existing laws, and repeal outdated laws. The legislative branch is typically composed of elected representatives who are responsible for representing the interests of the people and making decisions on their behalf. By making the law, the legislative branch plays a crucial role in shaping the legal framework of a country and ensuring that it is responsive to the needs and values of its citizens.Rate this question:
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- 4.
There are three kinds of power: Legislative, Executive and Judicial. Executive power/branch is mainly responsible for what?
- A.
Making the law
- B.
Executing and enforcing the law
- C.
Interpreting the law
- D.
Publicizing the law to the citizens
Correct Answer
B. Executing and enforcing the lawExplanation
The executive power/branch is mainly responsible for executing and enforcing the law. This means that they are in charge of carrying out and implementing the laws that are passed by the legislative branch. They have the authority to enforce these laws and ensure that they are being followed by the citizens. This includes tasks such as enforcing regulations, investigating and prosecuting crimes, and maintaining public order and safety. The executive branch plays a crucial role in upholding the law and maintaining the functioning of the government.Rate this question:
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- 5.
There are three kinds of power: Legislative, Executive and Judicial. Judicial power/branch is mainly responsible for what?
- A.
Making the law
- B.
Executing and enforcing the law
- C.
Interpreting the law
- D.
Publicizing the law to the citizens
Correct Answer
C. Interpreting the lawExplanation
The judicial power/branch is mainly responsible for interpreting the law. This means that they analyze and explain the meaning of laws and how they should be applied in specific cases. They ensure that the laws are interpreted correctly and fairly, and they resolve disputes and conflicts based on the interpretation of the law. Their role is crucial in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring justice in a legal system.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following types of government leaves the responsibility to exercise power on ony one person or a very few about of self elected people?
- A.
Democracy
- B.
Anarchy
- C.
Dictatorship
- D.
Indirect Democracy
Correct Answer
C. DictatorshipExplanation
Dictatorship is a type of government where the responsibility to exercise power is in the hands of only one person or a very few self-elected individuals. In a dictatorship, the leader has absolute authority and control over the government and the people. They make all the decisions without any input or opposition from the citizens. This form of government is characterized by a lack of political freedom and limited civil liberties for the people.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A body of people, lving in a defined territory, organized politically and with power to make and enforce law without the consent of any higher authority is called:
- A.
A race
- B.
A country
- C.
A nation
- D.
A state
Correct Answer
D. A stateExplanation
A state is a body of people living in a defined territory, organized politically, and with the power to make and enforce laws without the consent of any higher authority. This means that a state has its own government and sovereignty, allowing it to govern its citizens and make decisions independently. A state is different from a race, which refers to a group of people sharing common physical or genetic characteristics, and from a country, which is a geographical area. While a nation can also refer to a group of people sharing a common culture or identity, a state is specifically focused on the political organization and power to enforce laws.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Thomas Hobbes said certain things were necessary to avoid "war of every man against every man," and Aristotle explained that "man is by nature a political animal." What were they referring to? What kind of government is this essential to and why?
- 9.
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have been a small group that simply took control is called:
- A.
Social Contract Theory
- B.
Divine Right Theory
- C.
Evolutionary Theory
- D.
Force Theory
Correct Answer
D. Force TheoryExplanation
Force theory is the correct answer because it suggests that the origins of government can be traced back to a small group that forcibly took control. This theory implies that governments were established through the use of physical force and coercion rather than through consent or divine right. It suggests that those who were stronger or more powerful were able to assert their control over others and establish a governing system.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have been a God-given right to rule, a theory particularly popular during the 15th through 18th centuries, is called
- A.
Social Contract Theory
- B.
Divine Right Theory
- C.
Evolutionary Theory
- D.
Force Theory
Correct Answer
B. Divine Right TheoryExplanation
The theory that refers to the origins of the government as a God-given right to rule is called Divine Right Theory. This theory was particularly popular during the 15th through 18th centuries. It suggests that monarchs and rulers derive their authority to govern directly from God, and therefore their rule is legitimate and unquestionable. This theory provided a justification for absolute monarchy and the concentration of power in the hands of a single ruler. It was often used to suppress dissent and justify the divine authority of kings and queens.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have slowly developed from the early, traditional family structure, with a head of the household is called
- A.
Social Contract Theory
- B.
Divine Right Theory
- C.
Evolutionary Theory
- D.
Force Theory
Correct Answer
C. Evolutionary TheoryExplanation
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have slowly developed from the early, traditional family structure, with a head of the household is called the Evolutionary Theory. This theory suggests that governments evolved naturally over time as families and clans grew larger and more complex, eventually leading to the establishment of formal governments. It emphasizes the gradual development and evolution of political systems rather than sudden or forced imposition of power.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have evolved from Locke, Hobbes and Rousseau's beliefs that you must give up some individual power to promote order is called:
- A.
Social Contract Theory
- B.
Divine Right Theory
- C.
Evolutionary Theory
- D.
Force Theory
Correct Answer
A. Social Contract TheoryExplanation
The theory that refers to the origins of the government to have evolved from Locke, Hobbes, and Rousseau's beliefs that you must give up some individual power to promote order is called the Social Contract Theory. This theory suggests that individuals voluntarily give up certain rights and freedoms in exchange for protection and the maintenance of social order by the government. It emphasizes the idea that the government exists to serve the people and that its power is derived from the consent of the governed.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following is NOT a purpose of government outlined in the Preamble?
- A.
More Perfect Union
- B.
Absolute Liberty
- C.
Establish Justice
- D.
General Welfare
Correct Answer
B. Absolute LibertyExplanation
The purpose of government outlined in the Preamble includes forming a more perfect union, establishing justice, and promoting the general welfare. However, "absolute liberty" is not mentioned as a purpose in the Preamble. The Preamble emphasizes the importance of creating a unified nation, ensuring fairness in the legal system, and working towards the well-being of all citizens, but it does not prioritize absolute individual freedom without any limitations or regulations.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following is NOT a way of classifying government?
- A.
Relationship between legislative and judicial branches
- B.
Who can participate
- C.
Geographical distribution of governmental power with the state
- D.
Relationship between legislative and executive branches
Correct Answer
A. Relationship between legislative and judicial branchesExplanation
The question is asking for a way of classifying government that is NOT included in the given options. The options provided include the relationship between the legislative and judicial branches, who can participate, the geographical distribution of governmental power within the state, and the relationship between the legislative and executive branches. The correct answer is "Relationship between legislative and judicial branches" because it is NOT a way of classifying government.Rate this question:
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- 15.
WHich of the following is not a type of dictatorship?
- A.
Oligarchy
- B.
Autocracy
- C.
Totalitarian
- D.
Anarchy
Correct Answer
D. AnarchyExplanation
Anarchy is not a type of dictatorship because it is the absence of any form of government or authority. In anarchy, there is no ruling individual or group, and there are no laws or regulations. It is a state of disorder and chaos where individuals have complete freedom but also face the risk of violence and lawlessness. Dictatorship, on the other hand, refers to a form of government where power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler or a small group of individuals who exercise absolute control over the state and its people.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Explain the difference between unitary, federal and confederate forms of government. Give an example of each if possible (for sure you should be able to give me an example of two of them)
- 17.
The American principle of democracy rests of five basic principles. Which of the five principles refers to having the same opportunities, rights, and obligations under the law?
- A.
Fundamental worth of the individual
- B.
Respect for equality of all persons
- C.
Majority rule, minority rights
- D.
Necessity of Compromise
- E.
Insistence of individual freedom
Correct Answer
B. Respect for equality of all personsExplanation
The correct answer is "Respect for equality of all persons." This principle refers to the idea that everyone should have the same opportunities, rights, and obligations under the law. It emphasizes the belief that all individuals should be treated fairly and equally, regardless of their background or characteristics. This principle is fundamental to the American democratic system, as it ensures that all citizens have an equal voice and are protected by the law.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The American principle of democracy rests of five basic principles. Which of the five principles refers to bending and adjusting competing views to find a position acceptable to the greatest amount of people?
- A.
Fundamental worth of the individual
- B.
Respect for equality of all persons
- C.
Majority rule, minority rights
- D.
Necessity of Compromise
- E.
Insistence of individual freedom
Correct Answer
D. Necessity of CompromiseExplanation
The principle of the "Necessity of Compromise" refers to the idea that in a democracy, it is important to find common ground and reach agreements through negotiation and compromise. This principle recognizes that in a diverse society, with different opinions and interests, it is necessary to adjust and modify competing views in order to find a position that is acceptable to the greatest number of people. This principle helps to ensure that the voices and perspectives of all individuals and groups are taken into account, and that decisions are made in a fair and inclusive manner.Rate this question:
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- 19.
The American principle of democracy rests of five basic principles. Which of the five principles refers to the balance of liberty and authority?
- A.
Fundamental worth of the individual
- B.
Respect for equality of all persons
- C.
Majority rule, minority rights
- D.
Necessity of Compromise
- E.
Insistence of individual freedom
Correct Answer
E. Insistence of individual freedomExplanation
The principle of "Insistence of individual freedom" refers to the balance of liberty and authority. It emphasizes the importance of protecting and preserving individual freedoms while also recognizing that there needs to be some level of authority and regulation in order to maintain a functioning society. This principle recognizes that individuals should have the freedom to make choices and pursue their own interests, but also acknowledges that there are limits to this freedom in order to protect the rights and well-being of others.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which illustrates the law of supply and demand?
- A.
Decrease in Supply + Decrease in Demand = Increase in Prices
- B.
Decrease in Supply + Increase in Demand = Increase in Prices
- C.
Increase in Supply + Decrease in Demand = Increase in Prices
- D.
Increase in Supply + Increase in Demand = Increase in Prices
Correct Answer
B. Decrease in Supply + Increase in Demand = Increase in PricesExplanation
This answer illustrates the law of supply and demand because it shows that when there is a decrease in supply and an increase in demand, prices will increase. This is because when there is less supply available for a product or service, but the demand for it is high, sellers can charge higher prices to maximize their profits. This relationship between supply, demand, and prices is a fundamental concept in economics known as the law of supply and demand.Rate this question:
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- 21.
In a free-enterprise economic system, also know as a capitalist system, the government has how much control?
- A.
None
- B.
Little
- C.
Plenty
- D.
All
Correct Answer
B. LittleExplanation
In a free-enterprise economic system, the government has little control. This means that the government does not heavily regulate or interfere with the functioning of the market. Instead, businesses and individuals have the freedom to make their own economic decisions, such as what to produce, how much to produce, and at what price to sell. The government's role is limited to ensuring fair competition, protecting property rights, and enforcing contracts. Overall, the market forces of supply and demand largely determine the allocation of resources and the distribution of goods and services in a free-enterprise system.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Our political beginnings were adapted from
- A.
England
- B.
France
- C.
The United Kingdom
- D.
The Spanish Conquistadors
Correct Answer
A. EnglandExplanation
Our political beginnings were adapted from England. This suggests that the political system and ideas of governance in our country were influenced by England. England has a long history of parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy, which have had a significant impact on the development of political systems in various countries around the world. Therefore, it is likely that our political beginnings were shaped by the English political system and its principles of government.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following English Documents challenged the idea of the divine right of kings, declaring that even a monarch must obey the law of the land?
- A.
Magna Carta
- B.
English Bill of Rights
- C.
The Petition of Right
- D.
The Declaration of Rights and Grievances
Correct Answer
C. The Petition of RightExplanation
The Petition of Right was an English document that challenged the idea of the divine right of kings and stated that even a monarch must obey the law of the land. It was presented to King Charles I in 1628 and outlined specific grievances against his rule, including unlawful imprisonment and taxation without consent. The document asserted that the king's power was limited and subject to the law, marking an important step towards the establishment of constitutional monarchy in England.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following English Documents introduced the idea that the power of the monarchy was not absolute, hence the concept of limited government?
- A.
Magna Carta
- B.
English Bill of Rights
- C.
The Petition of Right
- D.
The Declaration of Rights and Grievances
Correct Answer
A. Magna CartaExplanation
The Magna Carta is the correct answer because it was a document signed in 1215 by King John of England that established the principle that the power of the monarchy was not absolute. It introduced the idea of limited government by placing restrictions on the king's powers and establishing certain rights for the nobility and the church. The Magna Carta is considered a foundational document in the development of constitutional law and the concept of limited government.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Although al lthe colonies had different characteristics, what similarities did they share?
- A.
They were all central commercial vendors
- B.
They were all different religious settlements
- C.
They were all proprietary
- D.
They were all created from charter grants
Correct Answer
D. They were all created from charter grantsExplanation
The correct answer is that all the colonies were created from charter grants. This means that they were established through a formal document, known as a charter, which granted certain rights and privileges to the colonists. These charters were typically issued by the English monarch or a joint-stock company. This common characteristic of being created through charter grants allowed the colonies to have a certain level of self-government and autonomy, although they still remained under the authority of the English crown.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which is NOT one of the types of English Colonies?
- A.
Royal
- B.
Grant
- C.
Proprietary
- D.
Charter
Correct Answer
B. GrantExplanation
Grant is not one of the types of English Colonies. The types of English Colonies include Royal, Proprietary, and Charter. A Royal colony was directly controlled by the British Crown, while a Proprietary colony was granted to an individual or group by the Crown. A Charter colony was established through a charter granted by the Crown, which provided the colony with certain rights and privileges. However, there is no such type as a Grant colony in the context of English Colonies.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Wha kind of relationship that the England have with the 13 colonies?
- A.
Federal
- B.
Unitary
- C.
Confederate
- D.
Direct
Correct Answer
A. FederalExplanation
The relationship between England and the 13 colonies was federal. This means that power was shared between a central authority (England) and individual states (the colonies). The colonies had some degree of self-governance, but were still ultimately under the authority of England. This type of relationship allowed for a balance of power and some level of autonomy for the colonies while still maintaining a connection to England.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Explain "No taxation without representation"
- 29.
In 1754, Benjamin Franklin proposed an annual conference of delegates for the 13 colonies to discussthe problema of colonial trade and the danger of attacks by the French and their Native American allies. What was this called?
- A.
Virginia Plan
- B.
Stamp Act
- C.
Albany Plan
- D.
Continental Congress
Correct Answer
C. Albany PlanExplanation
The correct answer is Albany Plan. In 1754, Benjamin Franklin proposed the Albany Plan, which was an annual conference of delegates from the 13 colonies. The purpose of this conference was to discuss issues related to colonial trade and the threat of attacks by the French and their Native American allies. The plan aimed to create a unified colonial government and establish a defense against the French. Although the Albany Plan was not adopted, it laid the foundation for future discussions and cooperation among the colonies.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which was the first formal oppostition against the British government?
- A.
Declaration of Rights and Grievances
- B.
Declaration of Independence
- C.
Magna Carta
- D.
Boston Massacre
Correct Answer
A. Declaration of Rights and GrievancesExplanation
The Declaration of Rights and Grievances was the first formal opposition against the British government. This document, adopted by the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, protested against the imposition of taxes on the American colonies without their consent. It asserted the colonists' rights as Englishmen and their right to be taxed only by their own elected representatives. This declaration marked a significant step towards the American Revolution and the eventual independence of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which derved as the first government of the United States and alsted five years?
- A.
First Continental Congress
- B.
Second Continental Congress
- C.
Constitutional Convention
- D.
Articles of Confederation
Correct Answer
B. Second Continental CongressExplanation
The Second Continental Congress served as the first government of the United States and lasted for five years. It was formed in 1775 and played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The Congress managed the war effort, appointed George Washington as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, and drafted the Declaration of Independence. However, it lacked the power to enforce its decisions and was replaced by the Articles of Confederation in 1781.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Richard Lee offered a resolution saying the colonies should be free and independent states. Going forth with this resolution, Franklin, Adams, Sherman, Livingston and Jefferson prepared a proclamation speaking of the "repeated injuries and ursurpations" that led the colonists to revolt. What was this document called?
- A.
Declaration of Independence
- B.
Articles of Confederations
- C.
Declarations of Rights and Grievances
- D.
Bill of Rights
Correct Answer
A. Declaration of IndependenceExplanation
The document that Franklin, Adams, Sherman, Livingston, and Jefferson prepared, which spoke of the "repeated injuries and usurpations" that led the colonists to revolt, is called the Declaration of Independence.Rate this question:
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- 33.
What are 3 weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation? Why were they considered weaknesses?
- 34.
When was "the Critical Period"
- A.
1760s
- B.
1770s
- C.
1780s
- D.
1790s
Correct Answer
C. 1780sExplanation
The correct answer is 1780s because the term "the Critical Period" refers to the period of time in American history between the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783 and the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1788. This was a time of political and economic instability, as the newly independent states operated under the weak Articles of Confederation. The term "the Critical Period" was coined by historians to emphasize the challenges and uncertainties faced by the young nation during this time.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Despite their disputes regarding trade issues, which two states met at Mount Vernon (hence initiating the movement toward a federal plan for regulating commerce)?
- A.
Massachusetts and Vermont
- B.
Vermont and Maryland
- C.
Virginia and Massachusetts
- D.
Maryland and Virginia
Correct Answer
D. Maryland and VirginiaExplanation
Maryland and Virginia met at Mount Vernon, which initiated the movement toward a federal plan for regulating commerce. Despite their disputes regarding trade issues, these two states recognized the need for a unified approach to regulate commerce and took the first step by meeting at Mount Vernon. This meeting eventually led to the Constitutional Convention and the creation of a federal plan for regulating commerce in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Mount Vernon led to a joint meeting in Annapolis and later one in Philidelphia in which seven of the States had named delegates (later to be known as the framers). In this meeting the Articles of Confederation were revised and alterations were made with the intentions of preserving the Union. This meeting became known as:
- A.
The Constitutional Convention
- B.
The First Continental Congress
- C.
The Second Continental Congress
- D.
The Connecticut Compromise
Correct Answer
A. The Constitutional ConventionExplanation
The correct answer is "The Constitutional Convention." The passage states that Mount Vernon led to a joint meeting in Annapolis and later one in Philadelphia, in which seven states named delegates who would later be known as the framers. In this meeting, the Articles of Confederation were revised with the intention of preserving the Union. This meeting is commonly referred to as the Constitutional Convention.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which meeting called for a new government with three seperate but equal branches?
- A.
The New Jersey Plan
- B.
The Albany Plan
- C.
The Connecticut Compromise
- D.
The Virginia Plan
Correct Answer
D. The Virginia PlanExplanation
The Virginia Plan called for a new government with three separate but equal branches. This plan was proposed by James Madison during the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It advocated for a strong central government with a bicameral legislature, representation based on population, and a system of checks and balances. The Virginia Plan served as the basis for much of the structure and content of the United States Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which meeting agreed that COngress should be composed pf two houses in which the Senate would represent all states equally and the House qould be based on population?
- A.
The New Jersey Plan
- B.
The Albany Plan
- C.
The Connecticut Compromise
- D.
The Virginia Plan
Correct Answer
C. The Connecticut CompromiseExplanation
The Connecticut Compromise, also known as the Great Compromise, was a meeting that agreed that Congress should be composed of two houses. The Senate would represent all states equally, regardless of population, while the House of Representatives would be based on population. This compromise was reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and played a crucial role in balancing the interests of both small and large states in the formation of the United States government.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The Federalists
- A.
Favored the ratification of the Constitution
- B.
Opposed the ratification of the Constitution
- C.
Favored the federal government and felt it did not need any further changes
- D.
Opposed the federal government and felt it did not need any further changes
Correct Answer
A. Favored the ratification of the ConstitutionExplanation
The Federalists supported the ratification of the Constitution. They believed that a strong central government was necessary for the stability and success of the new nation. They argued that the Constitution provided the necessary framework for this strong government and that it should be ratified without any further changes.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Explain the three-fifths compromise and its importance.
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Mar 18, 2023Quiz Edited by
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