PMHS Exam #1

Select TWO effects of the Declaration of Independence.

• forced Britain to trade with the U.S.

• allowed foreign governments to officially recognize the U.S.

• required Britain to pay war reparations to the U.S.

• inspired people in other countries to question the authority of their government

• motivated European rulers to establish new colonies

Answer explanation

The Declaration of Independence inspired people globally to challenge their governments and allowed foreign nations to recognize the U.S. as an independent entity, facilitating diplomatic relations.

What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

• explain the reasons for breaking with Great Britain

• declare war with Great Britain

• create a limited government

• add personal rights and freedoms to the U.S. Constitution

Answer explanation

The purpose of the Declaration of Independence was to explain the reasons for breaking with Great Britain, outlining grievances and justifying the colonies' decision to seek independence.

Select THREE rights included in the FIRST Amendment.

• peaceful protest

• speech

• religion

• speedy & fair trial

• privacy

Answer explanation

The First Amendment protects several rights, including the freedom of speech, the right to practice religion, and the right to peaceful protest. These rights are fundamental to democratic expression.

No government interference

• liberty

• laissez-faire

• individualism

• populism

Answer explanation

The term 'laissez-faire' refers to an economic philosophy of minimal government interference in business and markets, aligning perfectly with the concept of 'no government interference'. Thus, 'laissez-faire' is the correct choice.

US Constitution: "We the People"

Declaration of Independence: "consent of the governed"

Which of the following means a government in which the people rule

• individual rights

• popular sovereignty

• separation of powers

• federalism

Answer explanation

The phrase "We the People" and "consent of the governed" emphasize that the authority of the government comes from the people, which defines popular sovereignty. This means the people rule, making it the correct choice.

Which branch of the U.S. government makes laws?

• Legislative Branch

• Executive Branch

• Judicial Branch

Answer explanation

The Legislative Branch is responsible for making laws in the U.S. government. It consists of Congress, which includes the House of Representatives and the Senate, tasked with drafting and passing legislation.

The 10th Amendment divides government power between the national & state levels, known as what?

• limited government

• checks & balances

• federalism

• judicial review

Answer explanation

The 10th Amendment establishes federalism by dividing government power between national and state levels, ensuring that states retain powers not specifically granted to the federal government.

Which branch of the U.S. government enforces laws passed by Congress?

• Executive Branch

• Legislative Branch

• Judicial Branch

Answer explanation

The Executive Branch is responsible for enforcing laws passed by Congress. This branch, led by the President, ensures that the laws are implemented and followed, distinguishing it from the Legislative and Judicial branches.

What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights?

• To establish a federal government

• To declare independence from Britain

• To protect individual liberties and limit government power

• To end the American Civil War

Answer explanation

The purpose of the Bill of Rights was to protect individual liberties and limit government power, ensuring that citizens' rights are safeguarded against potential government overreach.

Which branch of the U.S. government interprets the laws passed by Congress, and determines if they are valid?

• Judicial Branch

• Executive Branch

• Legislative Branch

Answer explanation

The Judicial Branch interprets laws passed by Congress and ensures their validity. It reviews cases and determines if laws align with the Constitution, making it the correct choice for this question.