Institutions of Government
Which branch of the U.S. government makes the laws?
Legislative Branch
What document declared the American colonies' independence from Britain and included key ideas like natural rights and the purpose of government?
Declaration of Independence
What is one way a person can become a U.S. citizen?
Born in the US / Parent born in the US
Apply & take a test
Which amendment gave women the right to vote in the United States?
19th Amendment
Which level of government is responsible for running public schools—federal, state, or local?
State
What are the three branches of the U.S. government?
Legislative
Executive
Judicial
What was the first plan of government for the United States that failed due to a weak central government?
Articles of Confederation
What is one responsibility of a U.S. citizen that helps choose government leaders?
Voting
Which amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 in federal elections?
26th Amendment
What does the Tenth Amendment say about powers not given to the federal government?
It goes to the states or to the people
What is it called when each branch of government can limit the powers of the other two branches?
Checks & Balances
Which group supported a strong central government and the Constitution as written, without a Bill of Rights?
Federalists
What is one way citizens can influence government outside of voting?
Protesting, using your rights
What 1964 law banned discrimination based on race?
The Civil Rights Act
What is one protection provided by the Massachusetts Constitution that is not included in the U.S. Constitution?
The right to a free, public education
Who nominates Supreme Court justices, and who confirms them?
The President, the Senate
Which part of the Constitution outlines the goals of the new government and begins with the words “We the People”?
Preamble
What are two rights that everyone in the US has?
Speech, religion, due process (and a lot more!)
What clause in the Constitution gives Congress the power to make all laws necessary for carrying out its duties, and why is it called the "elastic clause"?
The necessary and proper clause, because it allows Congress to stretch its power.
What is the leader of the state executive branch called? What is their name?
Governor Maura Healy
What is the name of the group that officially elects the President of the United States?
The Electoral College
What problem faced by the U.S. under the Articles of Confederation made it difficult to raise money for the government and showed the need for a stronger national government?
The government couldn't tax
What is the process called by which a person born in another country becomes a U.S. citizen, and what are two requirements they must meet to complete it?
Naturalization
Live in US for 5+ year, apply, take a test, take the Oath of Allegiance...
What is the power of the Supreme Court to declare laws or actions of the government unconstitutional?
Judicial review
What is the name of the leader of the local executive branch? What is their name?
Mayor Brian de Pena