United States of America

History

100

When was the Declaration of Independence signed?

1776

200

True/False: The U.S. Constitution was adopted in 1787.

True

300

Who lived in North America for over 15,000 years before Europeans?

Native Americans

400

What was the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War?

It was a turning point in 1863, weakening the Confederacy

500

Explain the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on the Civil War.

it freed slaves in Confederate states, shifted the wars focus to ending slavery, and strengthened the Unions moral cause

Immigration

100

Approximately how many immigrants live in the U.S.?

45 Million

200

True/False: Over 350 languages are spoken in U.S. homes.

True

300

What is an example of the “Salad Bowl” concept?

f.ex. Chinatown in NYC

400

Compare the pros and cons of the “Melting Pot” vs. “Salad Bowl” concepts.

Melting Pot: unity but cultural loss; Salad Bowl: cultural richness but potential social separation

500

Name and explain contributions by immigrants regarding the economy, innovation and culture in America.

Economy:
Key roles in agriculture, healthcare,
construction, tech
Many immigrants start small businesses
Innovation:
High presence in STEM fields and startups
Founders of major companies (e.g., Google,
Tesla)
Culture:
Enrichment through language, food, traditions
Multicultural cities and diverse communities

The American Dream

100

Who first coined the term "American Dream" in his 1931 book?

James Truslow Adams

200

What are the three core ideals of the American Dream?

Success, prosperity, and happiness (or freedom, opportunity, and upward mobility)

300

Critics argue that the American Dream is not equally accessible to everyone. What are two systemic challenges that might hinder someone from achieving it?

• Income inequality

• Racial/gender discrimination

• Lack of affordable education or healthcare

• Social class barriers

400

According to James Truslow Adams, what determines success in the American Dream?

Ability and hard work, not birth or background

500

How have new generations redefined the American Dream?

They focus on work-life balance, social justice, and personal well-being, not just wealth

Blacks in America

100

What was a key feature of slavery in America?

No freedom or payment for slaves

200

True/False: The civil rights act was introduced in 1974.

False

300

What is a modern social movement?

Black Lives Matter

400

Who was a key figure in ending slavery?

Abraham Lincoln

500

How did the Civil Rights Act address the legacy of slavery?

It outlawed segregation and discrimination, promoting equal rights for all races

Government and Politics

100

What was a major concern in recent U.S. politics?

Inflation

200

What are the two main political parties in the U.S. and which one is generally more conservative?

Democratic Party (liberal) and Republican Party (conservative)

300

What are the three branches of government, and which constitutional articles define their powers?

1. Legislative (Article I: Congress)

2. Executive (Article II: Presidency)

3. Judicial (Article III: Courts)

400

How does the Electoral College work, and why can a president win without the popular vote?

The Electoral College assigns votes per state (based on population)

A candidate can win by securing majorities in key states, even if they lose the national popular vote (e.g., 2016)

500

Compare the roles of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Mention term lengths, key powers, and leadership.

• House: 435 members; 2-year terms; initiates revenue bills; led by the Speaker.

• Senate: 100 members; 6-year terms; approves treaties/judges; led by the Vice President.