Judicial Branch/Federalist Papers Quiz

Who wrote the Federalist Paper No. 78?

• James Madison

• John Jay

• Alexander Hamilton

• Thomas Jefferson

What is the main point made by Alexander Hamilton in Federalist Paper No. 78?

• The judiciary will be the most powerful branch of government.

• The judiciary will be the weakest of the three branches and unable to overpower the others.

• The judiciary will have the power to enforce its decisions with force.

• The judiciary will control the legislative branch.

According to Federalist Paper No. 78, what is necessary to enable the judiciary to defend itself against attacks?

• Military support

• Public opinion

• All possible care is requisite

• The power to tax

What does Alexander Hamilton mean by a "limited Constitution"?

• A Constitution that limits the power of the judiciary

• A Constitution that has no exceptions to legislative authority

• A Constitution that contains certain specified exceptions to the legislative authority

• A Constitution that allows for unlimited government power

Why is judicial independence important, according to Hamilton?

• It ensures the permanent tenure of judicial offices.

• It is necessary to guard the Constitution and the rights of individuals.

• It allows for the appointment of judges for life.

• It serves as the bulwark of a limited Constitution against legislative encroachments.

Why might people who opposed the Constitution be concerned about appointing federal judges for life?

• They feared the power of judges who were appointed for life.

• They believed it would lead to dangerous innovations in the government.

• They thought it would result in serious oppressions of the minor party.

• They were concerned about the manifest tenor of the Constitution being altered.

Do you think Hamilton is right that the judiciary is the weakest branch, or do you think he was simply trying to convince opponents of the Constitution that they had no reason to fear the power of judges who were appointed for life?

• The judiciary is the weakest branch because it has no influence over the sword or the purse.

• Hamilton was trying to convince opponents that they had no reason to fear the power of judges.

• The judiciary is the strongest branch because it can declare legislative acts void.

• Hamilton believed that the judiciary should have the power to enforce its decisions.

What is the job of the judge?

• To manage everything that goes on in the courtroom and serve as expert on the law

• To determine who is guilty and innocent

• To observe the court proceedings and take notes

If you believe your trial was not handled fairly what can you do?

• Nothing, the verdict is final

• Appeal your verdict to a higher court

• Write to the judge

• Petition the Supreme Court

Number of US Supreme Court justices

• 3

• 5

• 7

• 9