****AG Unit 1 Part 1 Quiz (15pts)

What is the textbook definition of sovereignty?

• The power of the government to enforce laws

• The authority of the military within a state

• Supreme and absolute authority within territorial boundaries

• The ability of a state to engage in international trade

Answer explanation

Sovereignty is defined as the supreme and absolute authority within territorial boundaries, meaning a state has full control over its territory and governance without external interference.

Why is the United States of America called the United STATES of America?

• Because it has a united government

• Because it has 50 united territories

• Because it is formed by the union of 50 states

• Because it has united with other countries

Answer explanation

The United States of America is called the United STATES because it is formed by the union of 50 states, each with its own government, coming together to create a single nation.

What is the textbook definition of a nation?

• A group of people with a common government

• A group of people with common customs and traditions

• Any sizable group of people that do not share common customs and traditions

• A political entity with defined boundaries

Answer explanation

A nation is defined as a group of people who share common customs and traditions, which fosters a sense of identity and belonging. This distinguishes it from mere political entities or groups without shared cultural ties.

Why is size not a determining factor for the people who make up the state?

• Because large populations are more likely to form states

• Because people of any size can form a state

• Because smaller populations are better for statehood

• Because size only matters in international relations

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that statehood is not limited by population size; any group of people, regardless of their number, can establish a state. This emphasizes the idea that governance is based on social organization, not just size.

What is sovereignty in the context of the state?

• Limited power within its own territory

• Shared power with neighboring countries

• Absolute power within its own territory

• Power determined by international agreements

Answer explanation

Sovereignty refers to a state's absolute power within its own territory, meaning it has the ultimate authority to govern itself without external interference. This distinguishes it from limited or shared powers.

What is the textbook definition of government?

• The ruling class in a society

• The institution through which the state maintains social order

• A group of elected officials

• The economic system of a country

Answer explanation

The correct choice defines government as the institution that maintains social order, which encompasses its primary role in organizing society and enforcing laws, unlike the other options that focus on specific aspects.

Which theory is described as "to preserve their rights, they willingly contracted to give power to a governing authority. When government failed to preserve the rights of the people, the people had the right to break the contract."

• Evolutionary

• Divine Right

• Force Theory

• Social Contract Theory

Answer explanation

The statement describes Social Contract Theory, which posits that individuals consent to surrender some freedoms to a governing authority in exchange for protection of their rights. If the government fails, the people can revoke that consent.

What are the four purposes of government, according to the information?

• Maintain culture, Provide entertainment, Ensure equality, Control media

• Maintain social order, Provide public services, disrupt the economic system

• Maintain social order, Provide public services, National security, Control the economic system

• Control religion, Ensure economic prosperity, Provide education

Answer explanation

The correct answer lists the four main purposes of government: maintaining social order, providing public services, ensuring national security, and controlling the economic system, which are essential for a stable society.

Which characteristic distinguishes the state from smaller political units?

• Population density

• Cultural diversity

• Sovereignty

• Economic prosperity

Answer explanation

Sovereignty distinguishes a state from smaller political units, as it refers to the ultimate authority and independence to govern itself without external interference, a characteristic not typically held by smaller entities.

In what year did 18-year-olds get the right to vote?

• 1965

• 1972

• 1980

• 1990

Answer explanation

18-year-olds gained the right to vote with the 26th Amendment, ratified in 1971, which took effect in 1972. Therefore, the correct answer is 1972.