Principles of American Government Quiz

Which principle states that government is not all-powerful and can only do what the people allow it to do?

• Federalism

• Limited government

• Checks and Balances

• Separation of Powers

What is the term for a system where power is divided between a national government and state governments?

• Republicanism

• Federalism

• Popular Sovereignty

• Separation of Powers

Which principle is best described as the belief that government is created by and sustained by the consent of its people?

• Popular Sovereignty

• Checks and Balances

• Limited Government

• Federalism

What is the main idea of republicanism?

• Government by a king or queen

• Government by elected representatives of the people

• Government by the military

• Government by religious leaders

Which principle ensures that the legislative, executive, and judicial functions of government are divided among separate and independent branches?

• Federalism

• Separation of Powers

• Checks and Balances

• Popular Sovereignty

If Congress passes a law, but the President vetoes it, which principle is being demonstrated?

• Federalism

• Checks and Balances

• Popular Sovereignty

• Limited Government

A state government wants to create its own education policy, but must still follow federal laws. Which principle does this situation best illustrate?

• Separation of Powers

• Federalism

• Republicanism

• Checks and Balances

Explain how the principle of popular sovereignty is reflected in the process of voting in national elections.

• The government chooses leaders without input from citizens.

• Citizens elect representatives, showing that government power comes from the people.

• Only the president can vote in national elections.

• Judges are appointed for life and never face elections.

A law is passed by Congress, but the Supreme Court declares it unconstitutional. Which two principles are being demonstrated in this scenario?

• Federalism and Popular Sovereignty

• Checks and Balances and Separation of Powers

• Limited Government and Republicanism

• Federalism and Separation of Powers

A new law gives the president the power to make all laws without Congress. Which fundamental principle would this law violate the most, and why?

• Federalism, because it removes state power

• Separation of Powers, because it gives all legislative power to the executive branch

• Popular Sovereignty, because it allows people to vote

• Checks and Balances, because it increases the power of judges