U.S. Government Structure and Functions

The video provides a virtual tour of the legislative branch of the U.S. government, focusing on the history and structure of Congress. It begins with an introduction to the Capitol Building and a historical overview of Independence Hall, where the Articles of Confederation were revised. The video discusses the Virginia Plan, which proposed a government with three branches, and the Great Compromise, which established the bicameral structure of Congress. It concludes with a look at the modern Congress, its composition, and the qualifications for its members.

What is the primary role of the legislative branch in the U.S. government?

• To oversee the military

• To make laws

• To interpret laws

• To enforce laws

Why was the Articles of Confederation considered weak?

• It gave too much power to the central government

• It lacked a national court system and central leadership

• It allowed states to print their own money

• It had a strong executive branch

What was the main proposal of the Virginia Plan?

• To divide the government into three branches

• To create a strong executive branch

• To maintain a single legislative body

• To give more power to the states

What is the main function of the judicial branch as proposed in the Virginia Plan?

• To ensure justice under the law

• To manage foreign relations

• To enforce laws

• To create laws

Who is known as the 'Father of the Constitution'?

• George Washington

• Thomas Jefferson

• James Madison

• Alexander Hamilton

What was the purpose of the Great Compromise?

• To create a strong executive branch

• To abolish the Senate

• To balance power between large and small states

• To establish a single house of Congress

How are members of the House of Representatives chosen today?

• Appointed by the President

• Appointed by the Senate

• Elected by state legislatures

• Elected directly by the people

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

• Eight years

• Six years

• Four years

• Two years

How many members are there in the House of Representatives?

• 500

• 435

• 200

• 100

What are the age and citizenship requirements to be elected to the House of Representatives?

• At least 21 years old and a citizen for 5 years

• At least 35 years old and a citizen for 14 years

• At least 30 years old and a citizen for 9 years

• At least 25 years old and a citizen for 7 years