U.S. Government & Constitution
What are the three branches of the US government?
Legislative, Executive, and Judicial
At what age can US citizens vote in federal elections?
18
What is the most basic civic duty of a US citizen?
What was the main goal of the Civil Rights Movement?
To end racial discrimination and secure equal rights
Who is usually the head of a city's government?
How many amendments are in the US Constitution?
27
What is the purpose of the Electoral College?
To formally elect the president and VP of the US
What is jury duty and why is it important?
Serving on a jury in a court case to ensure a fair trial
Which amendment gave women the right to vote?
19th amendment
What is the role of a governor?
The head of a state's executive branch
What is the Bill of Rights?
The first 10 amendments to the Constitution
What is the difference between a primary election and a general election?
A primary determines party candidates; the general election selects the officeholder
What is a petition, and how can citizens use it to create change?
A formal request signed by citizens to influence government action
What was the purpose of the Seneca Falls Convention?
To advocate for women's rights
What do state legislatures do?
Make laws for the state
Which branch of government has the power to declare war?
Legislative (Congress)
What is voter turnout, and why is it important?
The percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election; it affects representation.
What is the difference between a right and a responsibility?
A right is something you are entitled to; a responsibility is something you should do as a good citizen
What landmark Supreme Court case ruled that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional?
Brown v. Board of Education 1954
How can citizens directly influence state or local laws?
Bu voting in local elections, attending town hall meetings, signing petitions, or running for office
What does the Supremacy Clause state?
Federal law is the supreme law of the land
Name one law that helped expand voting rights in the US
Voting Rights Act of 1965, 19th Amendment, 26th Amendment, etc.
What is the significance of civic literacy in a democracy?
It helps citizens make informed decisions, participate in government, and protect their rights
What movement led to the passage of the 26th amendment, lowering the voting age to 18?
The Vietnam War protests and youth activism
What is a ballot initiative?
A process where citizens can propose and vote on laws directly