Preamble and Principles
What are the six goals stated in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?
To form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty.
How many articles are there in the U.S. Constitution?
Seven.
Name the three branches of the U.S. government and their main responsibilities.
Legislative (makes laws), Executive (enforces laws), and Judicial (interprets laws).
How many states were required to ratify the Constitution for it to become effective?
Nine.
Which amendment protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures and requires probable cause for search warrants?
The Fourth Amendment.
Which phrase initiates the U.S. Constitution, declaring that the government's authority comes from the people?
"We the People."
Which amendment grants the right to bear arms and maintain a well-regulated militia?
The Second Amendment.
What is the purpose of the system of checks and balances in the U.S. Constitution?
To prevent any one branch from gaining too much power and to ensure a balance of power among the branches.
What is the process for formally amending the U.S. Constitution?
An amendment can be proposed by a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate or by a national convention. It then must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions.
Which amendment guarantees the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury and the right to have legal representation?
The Sixth Amendment.
What principles are outlined in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?
Popular sovereignty, limited government, separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism, and individual rights.
Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government?
The First Amendment.
Which branch of government can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote?
The Legislative branch aka Congress.
How many amendments are there in the Bill of Rights?
Ten.
Which amendment prohibits excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment?
The Eighth Amendment.
What is the primary purpose of the Preamble in the U.S. Constitution?
To serve as an introduction, stating the goals and purposes of the Constitution and establishing the authority of the government.
What do the first three articles of the Constitution establish?
The three branches of the government.
Can members of Congress also serve in the executive branch?
No, the Constitution prohibits members of Congress from holding positions in the executive branch.
What is the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
It guarantees individual rights and limits the power of the federal government.
Which amendment guarantees equal protection under the law and due process to all citizens?
The Fourteenth Amendment.
How many sentences are in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?
One, looooong sentence.
Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?
The Thirteenth Amendment.
Who has the power to nominate federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, in the United States?
The President.
Which amendment protects citizens from self-incrimination and double jeopardy and ensures due process of law?
The Fifth Amendment.
Which amendment granted women the right to vote?
The Nineteenth Amendment.