Gov. Quiz - Constitutional Principles of Government

Which of these phrases could be used as a good explanation for the concept of "constitutionalism" and the role of "limited government" in America?

• an absolute monarchy is the best government to keep Americans safe and secure.

• no one in America is "above the law," and no law is "above the constitution."

• a bicameral congress divided into the Senate, and the House of Representatives.

• The United States was founded on principles of Christianity and the Enlightenment.

The most signifiant factor allowing citizens to maintain "popular sovereignty" in America is...

• The division of the government into 3 separate but equal branches.

• voting for government officials and public policies.

• limiting the President to only two terms in office.

• the right to form states that share power with the federal government.

Organize these details into the correct categories

Groups:

(a) Federalism

,

(b) Republicanism

,

(c) Separation of Powers

,

(d) Individual Rights

• checks and balances

• "The Senate shall be composed of two senators from each state, elected by the people."

• In all criminal prosecutions, the accused is entitled to a speedy and public trial

• one nation of several states

• 3 levels: national, state, and local

• Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude shall exist within the United States

• freedom of speech and peaceful protest

• government of elected representatives

• 3 separate but equal branches

• "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution...are reserved for the States

• "House of Representatives shall be composed of members chosen every second year by the people"

What was the main argument used to support a "separation of powers" with a robust system of "checks and balances?"

• the government had the responsibly of protecting our private property.

• A strong, national government is much more effective at governing than weaker state governments

• too much power concentrated into a single office will lead to tyranny and threaten our rights.

• Maintaining a large and powerful military force is necessary to discourage foreign attackers.

How does a bill become a law? Trace the important procedural steps required for a bill drafted in the House of Representatives to become a national law.

• The Senate debates and approves the bill by majority vote.

• the bill passes to the President of the United States.

• The President signs the bill into law.

• The House debates and approves the bill by majority vote.

• the bill passes to the senate for debate.

Checks and Balances: What are the proper procedural steps that are available for Congress to limit the power of a President that refuses to sign a bill?

• the bill passes to the Senate for reconsideration.

• the bill becomes a law without Presidential approval.

• The House overrides the President with a 2/3rds vote.

• The Senate overrides the President with a 2/3rds vote.

• The bill is returned to The House for reconsideration.

Read this passage from the U.S. Constitution:

"Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the several states which may be included within this Union, according to their respective numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free persons...and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons."

Why did the founding fathers allow states to include "three-fifths of all other persons" in their congressional representation?

• to settle a compromise over the issue of slavery.

• to settle a compromise over the issue of illegal immigration.

• to maintain a complete "separation of church and state."

• to force wealthier states to pay higher tax rates than less wealthy states.