Who was the author of the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson
100
On what day was the Declaration of Independence signed?
July 4, 1776
100
The dividing and sharing of powers between levels of government is essential to our American government. What is that called?
Federalism
100
Which branch of government is responsible for ensuring that the law is carried out properly?
The Executive Branch
100
Name three concurrent (shared powers) powers:
Enforcing laws, establishing courts, writing laws
200
Who is the "Father of the Constitution"?
James Madison
200
In which month do federal elections take place?
November
200
Borrowed from the Magna Carta, this idea establishes that our leaders must obey the Constitution and can be removed if they abuse their power.
"Rule of Law"
200
How many members serve in the U.S. Congress? (you must break it down by chamber AND give a total)
100 Senators, 435 Representatives = 535 total
200
What does the US Constitution do?
Sets up a plan of government, guarantees rights to citizens, limits and grants the powers of the branches of government
300
Who was the General and leader of the Continental Army?
George Washington
300
When was the Mayflower Compact written?
1620
300
This 14th Amendment clause suggests that justice is blind and that citizens should, when dealing with the law, expect fair treatment regardless of race.
"Equal Protection Clause"
300
Which branch of the federal government is NOT elected?
The Judicial Branch
300
How many stars are on the US Flag?
50- one for each state
400
Who is the current Speaker of the House and 3rd in line for the Presidency?
Rep. Paul Ryan
400
The signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, signaled the end of which war?
American Revolutionary War
400
The "free exercise" and "establishment" clauses are protections included in which of the 1st Amendment rights?
Freedom of Religion
400
This idea, borrowed from an Enlightenment thinker, prevents the pieces of the government from becoming too powerful. List the idea AND the thinker.
Separation of powers/ Montesquieu
400
Name three patriotic symbols of the US:
Bald Eagle, Statue of Liberty, Liberty Bell, Constitution Hall, the White House, the Capitol Building
500
Name the last 3 Presidents elected from the democratic party.
Obama, Clinton, Carter
500
On which day are new Presidents inaugurated (sworn in)?
January 20
500
Which Constitutional Amendment guarantees that people have more rights than just those mentioned in the Bill of Rights?
9th Amendment
500
Level of government responsible for changing the US Constitution.