Understanding Key Political Terms

What is the Constitution of the United States?

• The supreme law of the United States

• A set of guidelines for state governments

• A document outlining the rights of citizens

• A historical record of U.S. independence

What does the term 'slavery' mean in United States history?

• A system where African Americans were forced to work for no pay

• A form of voluntary labor

• A system of paid labor

• A type of government policy

What is the Legislative Branch responsible for?

• Making laws

• Enforcing laws

• Interpreting laws

• Advising the President

What does 'secession' mean?

• The act of leaving a larger group

• The process of joining a larger group

• The act of creating a new government

• The process of expanding territory

What are civil rights?

• The rights of citizens to have political and social equality and freedom

• The rights of states to govern themselves

• The rights of the government to enforce laws

• The rights of individuals to own property

What is the role of the Judicial Branch?

• Interpreting laws and ensuring they follow the Constitution

• Making laws

• Enforcing laws

• Advising the President

What does 'federalism' mean?

• Power is shared between the national and state governments

• Power is centralized in the national government

• Power is divided among citizens

• Power is held by the state governments only

What is the Constitution of the United States?

• The Constitution is the supreme law of the United States of America.

• The Constitution is a collection of famous speeches by U.S. presidents.

• The Constitution is a list of all the states in America.

• The Constitution is a set of economic policies for the country.

What does the word "slavery" mean in United States history?

• Slavery was a system where African Americans were forced to work for owners for no pay.

• Slavery was a system where everyone was paid equally for their work.

• Slavery was a time when all people could vote freely.

• Slavery was a system where people could choose their jobs and leave anytime.

What is emancipation?

• Emancipation is the fact or process of being set free from slavery.

• Emancipation is the act of creating new laws.

• Emancipation is the process of electing a leader.

• Emancipation is the celebration of a national holiday.