Rights and Responsibilities
What is freedom of speech?
The right to express any opinions without censorship or restraint
What is the process by which a person becomes a U.S. citizen called?
Naturalization
What document declared the American colonies' independence from Britain
The Declaration of Independence
What Enlightenment thinker influenced the Founding Fathers with his ideas on natural law and social contract?
John Locke
What is the role of the executive branch in the U.S. government?
To enforce laws.
What is the responsibility of paying taxes?
To fund government services and infrastructure
What is the importance of voting in a democracy
It allows citizens to choose their leaders and influence government decisions
What are the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution called?
The Bill of Rights
What document, signed in 1215, limited the power of the English king and influenced American government?
The Magna Carta
What is the primary function of the judicial branch?
To interpret laws and ensure they are applied fairly.
What is the right to a fair trial?
The right to be judged by an impartial jury and to have a fair legal process
What is a political party?
An organized group of people with similar political aims and opinions
What was the main weakness of the Articles of Confederation
It created a weak central government with limited powers
What was the main purpose of the Articles of Confederation?
To serve as the first constitution of the United States and establish a national government
What is a law?
A rule made by a government that citizens must follow.
What is the significance of the 14th Amendment?
It grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the U.S. and guarantees equal protection under the law
What is the role of interest groups in the political process?
To influence public policy and decision-making
What document replaced the Articles of Confederation
The U.S. Constitution
What is the significance of the Mayflower Compact?
It was an early form of self-government and a social contract among the Pilgrims
What is the purpose of local government?
To provide services and enforce laws at the local level.
What is the role of the Supreme Court in protecting individual rights?
To interpret the Constitution and ensure that laws and policies do not violate individual rights
What is the significance of civic engagement?
It involves participating in activities that promote the public good and strengthen democracy
What is the purpose of the Preamble to the Constitution?
To outline the goals and purposes of the government established by the Constitution
How did Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" influence American colonists?
It persuaded many colonists to support independence from Britain
What is the significance of the rule of law
It means that everyone, including government officials, must follow the law.