US Government Review

Front

What was the original purpose of the Constitutional Convention?

Back

To rewrite the Articles of Confederation

Answer explanation

The original purpose of the Constitutional Convention was to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, leading to the creation of a stronger federal government, not to rewrite the Declaration of Independence or elect a president.

Front

What was the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

Back

Explain to King George the reasons for separation from Great Britain

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to explain to King George the reasons for the American colonies' separation from Great Britain, outlining grievances and justifying their decision to seek independence.

Front

Which "era" contributed many ideas that would later appear in the Declaration of Independence?

Back

Enlightenment

Answer explanation

The Enlightenment era introduced ideas of individual rights, liberty, and government by consent, which heavily influenced the authors of the Declaration of Independence. Concepts from thinkers like Locke and Rousseau are evident in its text.

Front

What did the social contract theory argue?

Back

that individuals have the right to overthrow an abusive government that violates their natural rights

Answer explanation

The social contract theory, as proposed by Locke and others, argues that individuals have the right to overthrow a government that abuses its power and violates their natural rights, making this the correct choice.

Front

What was the main weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

Back

the federal government was too weak

Answer explanation

The main weakness of the Articles of Confederation was that the federal government was too weak, lacking the power to enforce laws or collect taxes, which hindered its ability to govern effectively.

Front

A weakness of the Articles of Confederation is that it had __________ .

Back

only a legislative branch

Answer explanation

A weakness of the Articles of Confederation is that it had only a legislative branch. This limited the federal government's ability to enforce laws and respond effectively to issues, as there was no executive or judicial branch.

Front

How did the weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation, such as no power to enforce laws, no executive branch, and no judicial branch, impact the writing of the Constitution?

Back

The Founding Fathers created a government with three branches.

Answer explanation

The weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation led the Founding Fathers to create a government with three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. This structure addressed the lack of enforcement and interpretation of laws.

Front

Which image clearly represents separation of powers?

Back

Front

How many representatives does each state get in the House of Representatives?

Back

It depends on population, but at least one

Answer explanation

Each state gets representatives in the House based on its population, with a minimum of one representative per state. This ensures that larger states have more representation while every state is guaranteed at least one.

Front

How many senators does each state have in the U.S. Senate?

Back

2

Answer explanation

Each state in the U.S. Senate is represented by 2 senators, regardless of its population. This ensures equal representation for all states in the legislative process.