Congress for Dummies -- Article 1 of the Constitution

The video is a detailed walkthrough of Article I of the U.S. Constitution, explaining the structure and powers of Congress, including the House of Representatives and the Senate. It covers the legislative process, the powers granted to Congress, and the limitations imposed on both Congress and the states. The video uses engaging analogies and historical context to make the content accessible and informative.

What is the primary purpose of Article I, Section I of the U.S. Constitution?

• To define the judicial system

• To create a bicameral legislature

• To outline the powers of the President

• To establish the executive branch

How are members of the House of Representatives chosen according to Section II?

• Nominated by the Senate

• Directly elected by the people

• Elected by state legislatures

• Appointed by the President

What was the Three-Fifths Compromise?

• A treaty with Native American tribes

• An agreement to have two houses in Congress

• A decision to elect the President by popular vote

• A method to count slaves as part of the population

What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?

• Eight years

• Six years

• Four years

• Two years

Who presides over the Senate and casts a vote in the event of a tie?

• The Chief Justice

• The Vice President

• The Speaker of the House

• The President

What is required for Congress to meet according to Section IV?

• A quorum

• A presidential order

• A unanimous vote

• A public referendum

Which body has the sole power to initiate revenue bills?

• The President

• The Supreme Court

• The House of Representatives

• The Senate

What is the 'elastic clause' in Section VIII?

• A clause that grants states the power to veto federal laws

• A clause that allows Congress to make laws necessary and proper

• A clause that limits the power of the President

• A clause that allows Congress to pass any law

What is prohibited by the ex-post facto law clause?

• Passing laws that punish actions retroactively

• Granting titles of nobility

• Declaring war without Congress

• Coining money by states

What is one power that states are explicitly denied in Section X?

• The power to levy taxes

• The power to establish courts

• The power to declare war

• The power to regulate commerce