Understanding the U.S. Amendment Process

The video discusses the U.S. Constitution as a living document, capable of change through amendments. It explains the amendment process, which involves proposal and ratification, and highlights the challenges due to the need for broad consensus. The video also covers the historical context of amendments, the debate over the difficulty of the process, and the role of states in addressing issues. It concludes with a reflection on whether the amendment process should be easier.

Why is the U.S. Constitution referred to as a 'living document'?

• Because it is similar to the Declaration of Independence.

• Because it is the oldest constitution in the world.

• Because it can be changed through amendments.

• Because it was written in the 1780s.

What is one way an amendment can be proposed?

• By the President's executive order.

• By a simple majority in Congress.

• By a national referendum.

• By two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress.

What is required for an amendment to be ratified?

• Approval by a simple majority of the states.

• Approval by the President.

• Approval by the Supreme Court.

• Approval by three-fourths of the states.

How many amendments have been ratified since the Constitution was created?

• 100

• 27

• 10

• 50

What is a common ratification deadline for proposed amendments since the 20th century?

• No deadline

• Five years

• Seven years

• Ten years

What is one argument against the current amendment process?

• It requires too few states to agree.

• It allows too many amendments to be passed.

• It is too easy for small minorities to block amendments.

• It does not involve the President enough.

Why is the amendment process intentionally difficult?

• To prevent any changes to the Constitution.

• To allow the President to have more power.

• To make it easier for states to pass their own laws.

• To ensure only vital changes are made.

What is the purpose of requiring a majority of the nation to support an amendment?

• To make the process faster.

• To give more power to the federal government.

• To make sure the amendment is beneficial to the entire country.

• To ensure the amendment is popular.

What does the amendment process suggest about the role of states?

• States have no role in the amendment process.

• States should only focus on local laws.

• States should handle their own issues independently.

• States should always follow federal government decisions.

What is a potential downside of the amendment process being so challenging?

• It can prevent necessary changes from being made.

• It allows too many amendments to be passed quickly.

• It makes the Constitution less important.

• It gives too much power to the President.