Almost Painless Guide to the Constitution

What is the primary function of a constitutional government?

• To grant unlimited power to the government

• To establish a monarchy

• To limit government powers and protect individual rights

• To allow only the President to make all decisions

In the United States system of government, who holds the ultimate authority?

• The President

• The Supreme Court Justices

• Congress

• The People

What document governed the United States before the Constitution was drafted?

• The Declaration of Independence

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Bill of Rights

• The Magna Carta

In which city was the Constitutional Convention held?

• Washington D.C.

• New York City

• Philadelphia

• Boston

Which branch of the federal government is responsible for enforcing the nation's laws?

• Legislative Branch

• Executive Branch

• Judicial Branch

• State Government

What action can Congress take to check the power of the President regarding legislation?

• Impeach the President

• Override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote

• Appoint Supreme Court Justices

• Declare a law unconstitutional

How does the Legislative Branch exercise a check over the Judicial Branch?

• By vetoing Supreme Court decisions

• By interpreting laws passed by Congress

• By approving or disapproving the President's appointment of Supreme Court Justices

• By enforcing the nation's laws

Which of the following rights is protected by the First Amendment?

• The right to bear arms

• Freedom of speech and religion

• Protection against unreasonable search and seizure

• The right to a speedy trial

What did the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibit?

• The sale of firearms

• Freedom of speech

• The sale of alcohol

• The right to vote

Which amendment repealed the 18th Amendment, ending the prohibition of alcohol?

• The 19th Amendment

• The 20th Amendment

• The 21st Amendment

• The 22nd Amendment