When was the Declaration of Independence signed?
1776
Approximately how many immigrants live in the U.S.?
45 Million
Who first coined the term "American Dream" in his 1931 book?
James Truslow Adams
What was a key feature of slavery in America?
No freedom or payment for slaves
What was a major concern in recent U.S. politics?
Inflation
True/False: The U.S. Constitution was adopted in 1787.
True
True/False: Over 350 languages are spoken in U.S. homes.
True
What are the three core ideals of the American Dream?
Success, prosperity, and happiness (or freedom, opportunity, and upward mobility)
True/False: The civil rights act was introduced in 1974.
False
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)
Who lived in North America for over 15,000 years before Europeans?
Native Americans
What is an example of the “Salad Bowl” concept?
f.ex. Chinatown in NYC
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
What is a modern social movement?
Black Lives Matter
What are the three branches of government, and which constitutional articles define their powers?
Legislative (Article I: Congress)
Executive (Article II: Presidency)
Judicial (Article III: Courts)
What was the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War?
It was a turning point in 1863, weakening the Confederacy
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
According to James Truslow Adams, what determines success in the American Dream?
Ability and hard work, not birth or background
Who was a key figure in ending slavery?
Abraham Lincoln
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)
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
Name and explain contributions by immigrants regarding the economy, innovation and culture in America.
How have new generations redefined the American Dream?
They focus on work-life balance, social justice, and personal well-being, not just wealth
How did the Civil Rights Act address the legacy of slavery?
It outlawed segregation and discrimination, promoting equal rights for all races
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.