CSLB General Building (B) — All Questions

What is the supreme law of the land in the United States?

• a.The U.S. Constitution✓
• b.The Declaration of Independence
• c.Federal statutes passed by Congress
• d.The Bill of Rights alone

The Constitution is the supreme law of the land; all other laws must agree with it. Ratified in 1788, it establishes the framework of the federal government. When a law conflicts with the Constitution, the Constitution controls.U.S. Constitution

What does the U.S. Constitution do?

• a.It declares independence from Great Britain
• b.It sets up the government and protects the basic rights of Americans✓
• c.It lists only the powers of the states
• d.It serves as a temporary wartime agreement

The Constitution creates the structure of the national government and defines its powers. It also protects the basic rights of people living in the United States. It replaced the earlier Articles of Confederation.U.S. Constitution

The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?

• a.We the States
• b.In Congress assembled
• c.We the People✓
• d.Life and liberty

The Preamble begins 'We the People,' expressing that government power comes from the people. This phrase captures the idea of self-government. It signals that citizens, not a king, are the source of authority.U.S. Constitution

What is an amendment to the Constitution?

• a.A federal court ruling
• b.A law passed only by the President
• c.A treaty with a foreign country
• d.A change or addition to the Constitution✓

An amendment is a formal change or addition to the Constitution. Amendments allow the document to adapt over time. They must be proposed and ratified through the process set out in Article V.U.S. Constitution

What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?

• a.The Bill of Rights✓
• b.The Articles of Confederation
• c.The Federalist Papers
• d.The Emancipation Proclamation

The first ten amendments are known collectively as the Bill of Rights. They were ratified in 1791 to protect individual liberties. They include freedoms such as speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial.U.S. Constitution

How many amendments does the Constitution have?

• a.10
• b.27✓
• c.25
• d.33

The Constitution currently has 27 amendments. The first ten form the Bill of Rights. The most recent, the 27th Amendment, concerns congressional pay and was ratified in 1992.27th Amendment

What is freedom of religion?

• a.You must belong to a national church
• b.Only certain approved religions are allowed
• c.You can practice any religion, or practice no religion✓
• d.The government chooses your religion

Freedom of religion means a person may follow any religion or none at all. The government cannot establish an official religion or forbid worship. This right is protected by the First Amendment.First Amendment

What is the economic system of the United States?

• a.A command economy run by the government
• b.A barter-only system
• c.A socialist economy with no private property
• d.A capitalist or market economy✓

The United States has a capitalist, or market, economy. Prices and production are largely determined by supply and demand among private businesses. Individuals and companies can own property and start businesses.

What is the 'rule of law'?

• a.Everyone must follow the law, including leaders and the government✓
• b.The President can ignore the courts
• c.Only citizens must follow the law
• d.Laws apply only to elected officials

The rule of law means no one is above the law, including government officials and leaders. Everyone must follow the same laws. This principle protects against arbitrary or unfair use of power.U.S. Constitution

Name one branch of the U.S. government.

• a.The Cabinet
• b.Congress (the legislative branch)✓
• c.The Electoral College
• d.The Federal Reserve

The three branches are legislative (Congress), executive (the President), and judicial (the courts). Congress is the legislative branch that makes laws. Separating powers among branches prevents any one from becoming too strong.U.S. Constitution

What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

• a.The national anthem
• b.A single ruling party
• c.Checks and balances (separation of powers)✓
• d.The Bill of Rights alone

A system of checks and balances lets each branch limit the others. For example, the President can veto laws, and the courts can review them. This separation of powers keeps any one branch from dominating.U.S. Constitution

Who is in charge of the executive branch?

• a.The Chief Justice
• b.The Speaker of the House
• c.The Secretary of State
• d.The President✓

The President leads the executive branch. This branch carries out and enforces federal laws. The President is also head of state and Commander in Chief.U.S. Constitution

Who makes federal laws?

• a.Congress✓
• b.The President alone
• c.The Supreme Court
• d.State governors

Congress, made up of the Senate and House of Representatives, makes federal laws. Bills must pass both chambers before going to the President. The President can then sign or veto them.U.S. Constitution

What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?

• a.The Cabinet and the courts
• b.The Senate and the House of Representatives✓
• c.The states and the territories
• d.The President and Vice President

Congress is bicameral, meaning it has two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 100 members and the House has 435 voting members. Both must agree to pass federal laws.U.S. Constitution

How many U.S. Senators are there?

• a.50
• b.435
• c.100✓
• d.538

There are 100 U.S. Senators. Each of the 50 states elects two senators, regardless of population. This gives every state equal representation in the Senate.U.S. Constitution

We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years?

• a.2 years
• b.4 years
• c.8 years
• d.6 years✓

A U.S. Senator serves a six-year term. Senate terms are staggered so about one-third are elected every two years. There is no limit on how many terms a senator may serve.U.S. Constitution

How can you find out who your U.S. Senators are?

• a.It depends on the state where you live; each state has two senators✓
• b.Every state shares the same two senators
• c.The President appoints your senators
• d.The Vice President is your senator

Your U.S. Senators depend on the state where you live. Each state elects two senators to represent it. You can look up your current senators at senate.gov.U.S. Constitution

How many voting members are in the House of Representatives?

• a.100
• b.435✓
• c.50
• d.538

The House of Representatives has 435 voting members. Seats are divided among the states based on population. This number was fixed by law in 1929.U.S. Constitution

We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years?

• a.4 years
• b.6 years
• c.2 years✓
• d.1 year

A U.S. Representative serves a two-year term. All 435 House seats are up for election every two years. There is no limit on the number of terms.U.S. Constitution

Why do some states have more Representatives than other states?

• a.Because of the state's land area
• b.Because of how long the state has existed
• c.Because of the number of cities in the state
• d.Because of the state's population✓

The number of Representatives a state has is based on its population. States with more people receive more seats in the House. This is why a census is taken every ten years to reapportion seats.U.S. Constitution

How many senators does each state have?

• a.Two (2)✓
• b.One (1)
• c.Three (3)
• d.It depends on population

Each state has exactly two senators, for a total of 100. This is true no matter how large or small the state's population is. Equal Senate representation was a key compromise at the Constitutional Convention.U.S. Constitution

Who does a U.S. Senator represent?

• a.Only the people who voted for the senator
• b.All people of the state✓
• c.Only one congressional district
• d.Only the state's largest city

A U.S. Senator represents all of the people in his or her state. Senators are elected statewide. This is different from Representatives, who represent smaller districts.U.S. Constitution

Who does a U.S. Representative represent?

• a.The entire nation
• b.Only members of one party
• c.All people in the representative's congressional district✓
• d.The whole state

A U.S. Representative represents all the people living in his or her congressional district. Each state is divided into districts of roughly equal population. Representatives are elected by the voters of their district.U.S. Constitution

How can you find out who the Speaker of the House of Representatives is now?

• a.The Speaker is always the Vice President
• b.The Speaker is appointed by the President
• c.The Speaker is chosen by the Supreme Court
• d.The Speaker is the leader chosen by the House; check house.gov for the current name✓

The Speaker of the House leads the House of Representatives and is elected by its members, usually from the majority party. The person holding this office changes over time. You can find the current Speaker at house.gov.U.S. Constitution

How old must a person be to become President of the United States?

• a.At least 35 years old✓
• b.At least 25 years old
• c.At least 30 years old
• d.At least 40 years old

The Constitution requires the President to be at least 35 years old. The person must also be a natural-born citizen and have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years. These qualifications are set in Article II.U.S. Constitution

How long is one term for the President?

• a.2 years
• b.4 years✓
• c.6 years
• d.8 years

The President serves a four-year term. Under the 22nd Amendment, a President may be elected to no more than two terms. Elections for President are held every four years.U.S. Constitution

In what month do we vote for President?

• a.January
• b.July
• c.November✓
• d.October

Presidential elections are held in November. Voting takes place on the Tuesday after the first Monday of the month. The new President is inaugurated the following January.U.S. Constitution

How can you find out the name of the President now?

• a.The President is the same as the Chief Justice
• b.The President is chosen by Congress each year
• c.There is no way to know who the President is
• d.The President is the current head of the executive branch; look up the name at whitehouse.gov✓

The President is the current head of the executive branch and Commander in Chief. Because the officeholder changes, you should verify the current name at whitehouse.gov. Presidents are elected every four years.U.S. Constitution

If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President?

• a.The Vice President✓
• b.The Speaker of the House
• c.The Chief Justice
• d.The Secretary of State

If the President cannot serve, the Vice President becomes President. This line of succession is set by the Constitution and federal law. The Speaker of the House would be next after the Vice President.U.S. Constitution

Who is the Commander in Chief of the military?

• a.The Secretary of Defense
• b.The President✓
• c.A five-star general
• d.The Speaker of the House

The President is the Commander in Chief of the U.S. armed forces. This gives civilian control over the military. The role is defined in Article II of the Constitution.U.S. Constitution

Who signs bills to become laws?

• a.The Chief Justice
• b.The Vice President
• c.The President✓
• d.The Speaker of the House

The President signs bills passed by Congress to make them law. If the President signs a bill, it becomes law. The President may instead veto the bill and send it back to Congress.U.S. Constitution

Who vetoes bills?

• a.The Supreme Court
• b.The Senate majority leader
• c.The Vice President
• d.The President✓

The President can veto, or reject, a bill passed by Congress. A veto sends the bill back without the President's signature. Congress can override a veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.U.S. Constitution

What does the President's Cabinet do?

• a.It advises the President✓
• b.It writes the nation's laws
• c.It decides Supreme Court cases
• d.It elects the Vice President

The Cabinet is a group of advisors who help the President make decisions. Its members lead the major executive departments. Cabinet members are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.U.S. Constitution

What is one power of the federal government?

• a.To issue driver's licenses
• b.To print money✓
• c.To provide local schooling
• d.To approve local zoning

The Constitution gives the federal government powers such as printing money, declaring war, creating an army, and making treaties. These are national responsibilities. Powers not given to the federal government are generally left to the states.U.S. Constitution

What is one power of the states?

• a.To print money
• b.To declare war
• c.To provide schooling and education✓
• d.To make treaties with other countries

States handle matters such as education, issuing driver's licenses, providing police and safety, and approving zoning and land use. These powers are reserved to the states. The 10th Amendment confirms that powers not given to the federal government belong to the states or the people.10th Amendment

How can you find out who the Governor of your state is now?

• a.Every state has the same Governor
• b.The President appoints each Governor
• c.The Governor is chosen by the Supreme Court
• d.The Governor is the head of your state's executive branch; look it up for the state where you live✓

The Governor leads the executive branch of a state and depends on where you live. Because the officeholder changes, verify the current Governor for your state. People in some U.S. territories have a Governor as well.U.S. Constitution

What are the two major political parties in the United States?

• a.The Democratic Party and the Republican Party✓
• b.The Federalist Party and the Whig Party
• c.The Labor Party and the Green Party
• d.The Tory Party and the Liberal Party

The two major political parties in the U.S. today are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. Other smaller parties also exist. Political parties help organize elections and government.

What does the judicial branch do?

• a.It writes new tax laws
• b.It reviews and explains laws and resolves disputes✓
• c.It commands the armed forces
• d.It prints money

The judicial branch reviews laws, explains their meaning, and settles legal disputes. It can decide whether a law goes against the Constitution. The federal courts, headed by the Supreme Court, make up this branch.U.S. Constitution

What is the highest court in the United States?

• a.The Court of Appeals
• b.The federal district court
• c.The Supreme Court✓
• d.The state supreme court

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. It has the final say on questions of federal law and the Constitution. Its decisions are binding on all lower courts.U.S. Constitution

How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

• a.Seven (7)
• b.Twelve (12)
• c.Fifteen (15)
• d.Nine (9)✓

The Supreme Court currently has nine justices. This includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The number is set by Congress, not the Constitution, and has been nine since 1869.

How can you find out who the Chief Justice of the United States is now?

• a.The Chief Justice leads the Supreme Court; look up the current name at supremecourt.gov✓
• b.The Chief Justice is always the Vice President
• c.The Chief Justice is elected by voters each year
• d.The Chief Justice is chosen by the Speaker of the House

The Chief Justice is the head of the Supreme Court and the federal judiciary. Because the officeholder changes over time, verify the current name at supremecourt.gov. The Chief Justice is nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.U.S. Constitution

What is one right or freedom protected by the First Amendment?

• a.The right to a free college education
• b.Freedom of speech✓
• c.The right to own a business
• d.The right to a driver's license

The First Amendment protects freedoms of speech, religion, assembly, press, and the right to petition the government. Freedom of speech is one of these. These rights are core to American democracy.First Amendment

What is one right protected by the Second Amendment?

• a.The right to vote
• b.The right to free speech
• c.The right to bear arms✓
• d.The right to a jury trial

The Second Amendment protects the right to keep and bear arms. This is one of the rights in the Bill of Rights. Like other rights, it can be subject to certain regulations.Second Amendment

There are several amendments about who can vote. Describe one of them.

• a.Only landowners can vote
• b.Only members of Congress can vote
• c.Only people born in the capital can vote
• d.Any citizen who is eighteen (18) years old or older can vote✓

Several amendments expanded voting rights. The 26th Amendment set the voting age at 18. Others guarantee that citizens cannot be denied the vote based on race (15th) or sex (19th), and that no poll tax may be required (24th).26th Amendment

What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?

• a.To serve on a jury✓
• b.To pay sales tax
• c.To obey traffic laws
• d.To attend public school

Serving on a jury and voting in a federal election are responsibilities reserved for U.S. citizens. Everyone in the country must follow laws and pay taxes. But jury duty is a duty only citizens perform.

Name one right only for United States citizens.

• a.The right to freedom of speech
• b.The right to vote in a federal election✓
• c.The right to a fair trial
• d.The right to worship freely

Voting in a federal election and running for federal office are rights reserved for U.S. citizens. Many other rights, such as free speech and religion, belong to everyone in the country. Citizenship brings full participation in choosing the government.

What is one right of everyone living in the United States?

• a.The right to vote in federal elections
• b.The right to run for President
• c.Freedom of assembly✓
• d.The right to serve on a federal jury

Rights such as freedom of speech, assembly, religion, and petition belong to everyone living in the United States, not only citizens. The right to assemble peacefully is one of them. A few rights, like voting in federal elections, are reserved for citizens.First Amendment

When must all men register for the Selective Service?

• a.At age sixteen (16)
• b.At age twenty-one (21)
• c.Only during a declared war
• d.At age eighteen (18)✓

Almost all male U.S. residents must register with the Selective Service at age 18. Registration continues to age 25. It allows the country to draft soldiers if Congress ever authorizes it.

What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen?

• a.To give up loyalty to other countries✓
• b.To join a political party
• c.To serve in Congress
• d.To pay a yearly citizenship fee

In the Oath of Allegiance, new citizens promise to give up loyalty to other countries, defend the Constitution and laws, obey U.S. laws, and serve the nation if needed. Giving up prior allegiance is one of these promises. Taking the Oath completes the naturalization process.

What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?

• a.Print money and declare war
• b.Vote and join a political party✓
• c.Appoint judges and sign treaties
• d.Command the army and veto bills

Americans can participate by voting, joining a political party, running for office, contacting officials, and peacefully protesting. Voting and joining a party are two examples. Participation keeps government responsive to the people.

When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?

• a.January 1
• b.July 4
• c.April 15✓
• d.December 31

Federal income tax returns are generally due by April 15 each year. Paying taxes is a responsibility of people who live and work in the United States. The 16th Amendment gave Congress the power to collect an income tax.16th Amendment

What does it mean that the U.S. Constitution can be amended?

• a.It must be rewritten every year
• b.It only applied to the founding generation
• c.It cannot be changed at all
• d.It can be changed over time to meet new needs✓

The Constitution can be changed through amendments, allowing it to adapt over time. This is why it has been amended 27 times. Article V describes the process for proposing and ratifying amendments.U.S. Constitution

Who serves as head of state, head of government, and Commander in Chief of the military?

• a.The President✓
• b.The Vice President
• c.The Chief Justice
• d.The Speaker of the House

In the United States, the President serves as head of state, head of government, and Commander in Chief all at once. Many other countries divide these roles among different people. The President's powers are described in Article II.U.S. Constitution

Who confirms the President's nominations to the Cabinet and the Supreme Court?

• a.The House of Representatives
• b.The Senate✓
• c.The Supreme Court
• d.State governors

The Senate confirms, or approves, many presidential nominations, including Cabinet members and federal judges. This is part of the system of checks and balances. The President nominates, but the Senate must consent.U.S. Constitution

Who has the power to declare war?

• a.The President alone
• b.The Supreme Court
• c.Congress✓
• d.The Secretary of Defense

The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war. This is another example of checks and balances, since the President commands the military but cannot formally declare war. Article I lists this power among those of Congress.U.S. Constitution

Why did colonists come to America?

• a.To pay higher taxes to the king
• b.To surrender their land rights
• c.To avoid owning property
• d.For freedom and economic opportunity✓

Colonists came to America seeking freedom, including religious and political liberty, and economic opportunity. Many sought to escape persecution in Europe. These motivations shaped early American ideals.

Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?

• a.American Indians (Native Americans)✓
• b.The Pilgrims
• c.English settlers
• d.African slaves

American Indians, also called Native Americans, lived in the Americas long before Europeans arrived. They formed many distinct nations and cultures. Europeans began arriving in large numbers in the 1500s and 1600s.

What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves?

• a.Native Americans
• b.Africans✓
• c.The English
• d.The French

Africans were captured, brought to America, and sold as slaves. The trans-Atlantic slave trade forced millions across the ocean. Slavery in the United States was not abolished until the Civil War era.

Why did the colonists fight the British?

• a.Because the British gave them too much freedom
• b.Because they wanted a king of their own
• c.Because of high taxes and taxation without representation✓
• d.Because the British paid them to fight

Colonists objected to high taxes imposed without their consent, a grievance summed up as 'taxation without representation.' They also resented British soldiers being housed in their homes and the lack of self-government. These tensions led to the Revolutionary War.

Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

• a.George Washington
• b.Benjamin Franklin
• c.John Adams
• d.Thomas Jefferson✓

Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. He drafted it in 1776 for the Continental Congress. He later became the third President of the United States.

When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

• a.July 4, 1776✓
• b.July 4, 1787
• c.September 17, 1787
• d.December 25, 1776

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. It announced that the thirteen colonies were free from British rule. This date is celebrated each year as Independence Day.

What did the Declaration of Independence do?

• a.It created the three branches of government
• b.It announced that the United States was free from Great Britain✓
• c.It ended the Civil War
• d.It freed all enslaved people

The Declaration of Independence declared the colonies' separation from Great Britain. It stated that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed. It also asserted that all men are created equal.

What is one idea from the Declaration of Independence?

• a.Only the king has rights
• b.Government has unlimited power
• c.All people are created equal✓
• d.States cannot make their own laws

The Declaration states that all men are created equal and have rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These ideas became foundational American principles. They influenced later movements for freedom and equality.

There were 13 original states. Name one.

• a.California
• b.Texas
• c.Ohio
• d.Virginia✓

The 13 original states included Virginia, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and others along the Atlantic coast. They were the former British colonies. California, Texas, and Ohio joined the Union later.

What founding document was written in 1787?

• a.The U.S. Constitution✓
• b.The Declaration of Independence
• c.The Emancipation Proclamation
• d.The Bill of Rights

The Constitution was written in 1787 at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. It replaced the weaker Articles of Confederation. It was ratified and took effect in 1789.U.S. Constitution

The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one writer.

• a.Thomas Jefferson
• b.James Madison✓
• c.King George III
• d.Abraham Lincoln

The Federalist Papers were written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay, under the name 'Publius.' They argued in favor of ratifying the Constitution. They remain an important source for understanding its meaning.

Why were the Federalist Papers important?

• a.They declared war on Britain
• b.They ended slavery
• c.They helped people understand and support the Constitution✓
• d.They created the national anthem

The Federalist Papers explained and defended the proposed Constitution. They helped persuade states to ratify it. They are still studied for insight into the framers' intentions.

Benjamin Franklin is famous for many things. Name one.

• a.He was the first President
• b.He wrote the Declaration of Independence alone
• c.He led the Union army
• d.He was a U.S. diplomat✓

Benjamin Franklin was a diplomat, the oldest member of the Constitutional Convention, and the first Postmaster General. He also wrote Poor Richard's Almanac and started the first free public libraries. He was a leading figure in the nation's founding.

Who is called the 'Father of Our Country'?

• a.George Washington✓
• b.Thomas Jefferson
• c.Benjamin Franklin
• d.John Adams

George Washington is called the 'Father of Our Country.' He led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War. He then served as the first President of the United States.

Who was the first President of the United States?

• a.John Adams
• b.George Washington✓
• c.Thomas Jefferson
• d.James Madison

George Washington was the first President, serving from 1789 to 1797. He set many precedents for the office, including the two-term tradition. He is often called the 'Father of Our Country.'

What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803?

• a.Florida
• b.Texas
• c.The Louisiana Territory✓
• d.Alaska

In 1803 the United States purchased the Louisiana Territory from France. Known as the Louisiana Purchase, it nearly doubled the size of the country. It opened vast lands west of the Mississippi River to settlement.

Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s.

• a.World War I
• b.The Vietnam War
• c.The Gulf War
• d.The Civil War✓

Wars fought by the U.S. in the 1800s include the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War. The Civil War is one example. World War I and later conflicts occurred in the 1900s.

Name the U.S. war between the North and the South.

• a.The Civil War✓
• b.The Revolutionary War
• c.The War of 1812
• d.World War I

The Civil War was fought between the Northern states (the Union) and the Southern states (the Confederacy). It lasted from 1861 to 1865. It ended slavery and preserved the Union.

Name one problem that led to the Civil War.

• a.The Louisiana Purchase
• b.Slavery✓
• c.The national anthem
• d.The federal income tax

Slavery was a central problem that led to the Civil War, along with economic differences and disputes over states' rights. Tensions between North and South grew for decades. The war ultimately ended slavery in the United States.

What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?

• a.He wrote the Constitution
• b.He was the first President
• c.He freed enslaved people with the Emancipation Proclamation✓
• d.He purchased Louisiana from France

Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing enslaved people in the Confederate states. He also preserved the Union and led the country through the Civil War. He was the 16th President of the United States.

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

• a.It ended the Revolutionary War
• b.It created the Bill of Rights
• c.It gave women the right to vote
• d.It freed enslaved people in the Confederate states✓

The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Lincoln in 1863, declared that enslaved people in the Confederacy were free. It made ending slavery a goal of the Civil War. Slavery was fully abolished by the 13th Amendment.

What U.S. war ended slavery?

• a.The Civil War✓
• b.The Revolutionary War
• c.World War I
• d.The War of 1812

The Civil War (1861-1865) ended slavery in the United States. The Emancipation Proclamation and Union victory paved the way. The 13th Amendment then abolished slavery nationwide.

Which amendment gives citizenship to all persons born in the United States?

• a.The 1st Amendment
• b.The 14th Amendment✓
• c.The 19th Amendment
• d.The 2nd Amendment

The 14th Amendment grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States. It was ratified in 1868 after the Civil War. It also guarantees equal protection of the laws.14th Amendment

After the Civil War, which amendment gave many men the right to vote?

• a.The 13th Amendment
• b.The 21st Amendment
• c.The 15th Amendment✓
• d.The 16th Amendment

The 15th Amendment, ratified in 1870, said the right to vote could not be denied based on race or previous condition of servitude. It extended voting rights to many men after the Civil War. Voting rights would continue to expand with later amendments.15th Amendment

Name one leader of the women's rights movement in the 1800s.

• a.Abraham Lincoln
• b.Thomas Jefferson
• c.George Washington
• d.Susan B. Anthony✓

Leaders of the 1800s women's rights movement included Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Sojourner Truth, and Lucretia Mott. Susan B. Anthony is one well-known figure. They worked to gain equal rights, including the right to vote.

Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.

• a.World War II✓
• b.The Civil War
• c.The Revolutionary War
• d.The War of 1812

Wars fought by the U.S. in the 1900s include World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. World War II is one example. The Civil War and Revolutionary War occurred earlier.

Who was President during World War I?

• a.Abraham Lincoln
• b.Woodrow Wilson✓
• c.Franklin Roosevelt
• d.Theodore Roosevelt

Woodrow Wilson was President during World War I, which the U.S. entered in 1917. He later promoted the League of Nations to prevent future wars. He served as the 28th President.

Why did the United States enter World War I?

• a.Because Japan attacked Pearl Harbor
• b.To gain the Louisiana Territory
• c.Because Germany attacked U.S. ships✓
• d.To end the Civil War

The United States entered World War I after German submarines attacked American ships and the Zimmermann Telegram was revealed. The U.S. joined the Allied side in 1917. The war ended in 1918.

When did all women gain the right to vote?

• a.1776
• b.1865
• c.1954
• d.1920✓

Women gained the nationwide right to vote in 1920 with the 19th Amendment. The women's suffrage movement had campaigned for decades. The amendment barred denying the vote based on sex.19th Amendment

What was the Great Depression?

• a.The longest and deepest economic downturn in the nation's modern history✓
• b.A major war in Europe
• c.A civil rights protest
• d.A constitutional amendment

The Great Depression was a severe economic downturn that lasted through the 1930s. Millions lost jobs, homes, and savings. Government programs known as the New Deal responded to the crisis.

When did the Great Depression begin?

• a.With the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941
• b.With the stock market crash of 1929✓
• c.With the end of the Civil War in 1865
• d.With the September 11 attacks in 2001

The Great Depression began with the stock market crash of 1929. This 'Great Crash' triggered years of economic hardship. Recovery came slowly through the 1930s and into World War II.

Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II?

• a.Woodrow Wilson
• b.Abraham Lincoln
• c.Franklin Roosevelt✓
• d.Harry Truman

Franklin D. Roosevelt was President during both the Great Depression and most of World War II. He introduced the New Deal to fight the Depression. He was elected to four terms, the only President to serve more than two.

Why did the United States enter World War II?

• a.Because Germany attacked U.S. ships in World War I
• b.To purchase the Louisiana Territory
• c.To stop communism in Korea
• d.Because Japan attacked Pearl Harbor✓

The United States entered World War II after Japan attacked the naval base at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The U.S. then joined the Allies against Japan, Germany, and Italy. The war ended in 1945.

Before he was President, Dwight Eisenhower was a general in which war?

• a.World War II✓
• b.The Civil War
• c.World War I
• d.The Vietnam War

Dwight D. Eisenhower was a general during World War II. He served as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. He later became the 34th President of the United States.

Who was the United States' main rival during the Cold War?

• a.Great Britain
• b.The Soviet Union✓
• c.Japan
• d.Mexico

During the Cold War, the United States' main rival was the Soviet Union. The two superpowers competed politically and militarily for decades without direct war. The Cold War ended with the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991.

During the Cold War, what was one main concern of the United States?

• a.The spread of democracy
• b.A shortage of colonies
• c.The spread of communism✓
• d.The end of the income tax

A main U.S. concern during the Cold War was the spread of communism. This concern shaped foreign policy for decades. It led the U.S. into conflicts such as the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Why did the United States fight in the Korean and Vietnam Wars?

• a.To gain new territory
• b.To end slavery
• c.To repay war debts
• d.To stop the spread of communism✓

The United States fought in Korea and Vietnam mainly to stop the spread of communism. These were major Cold War conflicts. The policy behind them was known as 'containment.'

What movement worked to end racial discrimination?

• a.The civil rights movement✓
• b.The women's suffrage movement
• c.The temperance movement
• d.The labor movement

The civil rights movement worked to end racial discrimination, especially against African Americans. It gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s. It led to major laws protecting equal rights.

Who was a leader of the civil rights movement?

• a.Franklin Roosevelt
• b.Martin Luther King, Jr.✓
• c.Susan B. Anthony
• d.Thomas Jefferson

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a leading figure in the civil rights movement. He advocated nonviolent protest to end segregation and discrimination. His 'I Have a Dream' speech is famous worldwide.

What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?

• a.He was the first President
• b.He wrote the Constitution
• c.He fought for civil rights and equal treatment for all Americans✓
• d.He led troops in World War II

Martin Luther King, Jr. worked for civil rights and equality for all Americans. He led the movement through nonviolent means. His efforts helped bring about landmark civil rights laws in the 1960s.

What major event happened on September 11, 2001, in the United States?

• a.The Civil War ended
• b.The stock market crashed
• c.The Constitution was signed
• d.Terrorists attacked the United States✓

On September 11, 2001, terrorists carried out coordinated attacks on the United States. Hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The attacks profoundly affected U.S. security policy.

Name one American Indian tribe in the United States.

• a.The Cherokee✓
• b.The Aztec
• c.The Inca
• d.The Maya

American Indian tribes in the United States include the Cherokee, Navajo, Sioux, Apache, and many others. The Cherokee are one example. The Aztec, Inca, and Maya were civilizations centered outside the present-day United States.

The colonists gained independence by defeating which country?

• a.France
• b.Great Britain✓
• c.Spain
• d.Mexico

The American colonists won independence by defeating Great Britain in the Revolutionary War. The war lasted from 1775 to 1783. France aided the colonists against the British.

What war did Americans fight to win independence from Britain?

• a.The Civil War
• b.The War of 1812
• c.The Revolutionary War✓
• d.World War I

Americans fought the Revolutionary War, also called the American Revolution, to gain independence from Britain. It began in 1775 and ended in 1783. Victory led to the founding of the United States.

Which President is known as 'Honest Abe' and led the nation during the Civil War?

• a.George Washington
• b.Ulysses S. Grant
• c.Andrew Jackson
• d.Abraham Lincoln✓

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, led the United States during the Civil War. He worked to preserve the Union and end slavery. He was assassinated in 1865, shortly after the war ended.

What is the capital of the United States?

• a.Washington, D.C.✓
• b.New York City
• c.Philadelphia
• d.Boston

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. It is home to the President, Congress, and the Supreme Court. The 'D.C.' stands for the District of Columbia.

Where is the Statue of Liberty?

• a.San Francisco Bay
• b.New York Harbor✓
• c.Washington, D.C.
• d.Boston Harbor

The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift from France in 1886. It has become a symbol of freedom and welcome to immigrants.

Why does the U.S. flag have 13 stripes?

• a.Because there are 13 amendments
• b.Because the flag has 13 stars
• c.Because there were 13 original colonies✓
• d.To honor 13 Presidents

The 13 stripes on the U.S. flag represent the 13 original colonies that became the first states. The stripes alternate red and white. They are a reminder of the nation's beginnings.

Why does the U.S. flag have 50 stars?

• a.Because there are 50 amendments
• b.To represent the original colonies
• c.To honor 50 Presidents
• d.Because there is one star for each state✓

The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 states of the Union. A star is added when a new state joins. The current design has been used since Hawaii became a state in 1959.

What is the name of the national anthem?

• a.The Star-Spangled Banner✓
• b.America the Beautiful
• c.My Country, 'Tis of Thee
• d.God Bless America

The national anthem of the United States is 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' The lyrics were written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. It was officially adopted as the anthem in 1931.

The nation's first motto was 'E Pluribus Unum.' What does it mean?

• a.In God we trust
• b.Out of many, one✓
• c.Land of the free
• d.Liberty and justice

'E Pluribus Unum' is Latin for 'Out of many, one.' It reflects how many states and people come together to form one nation. It appears on U.S. coins and the Great Seal.

Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States.

• a.The Thames River
• b.The Amazon River
• c.The Mississippi River✓
• d.The Nile River

The two longest rivers in the United States are the Missouri and the Mississippi. The Mississippi River is one of them. The Amazon and Nile are located on other continents.

What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States?

• a.The Atlantic Ocean
• b.The Indian Ocean
• c.The Arctic Ocean
• d.The Pacific Ocean✓

The Pacific Ocean lies on the West Coast of the United States. States such as California, Oregon, and Washington border it. It is the largest ocean on Earth.

What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States?

• a.The Atlantic Ocean✓
• b.The Pacific Ocean
• c.The Indian Ocean
• d.The Southern Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean lies on the East Coast of the United States. States such as New York, Florida, and Massachusetts border it. It separates the Americas from Europe and Africa.

Name one U.S. territory.

• a.Cuba
• b.Puerto Rico✓
• c.The Bahamas
• d.Ontario

U.S. territories include Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Puerto Rico is one example. People born in these territories are generally U.S. citizens or nationals.

Name one state that borders Canada.

• a.Florida
• b.Texas
• c.Maine✓
• d.Arizona

States that border Canada include Maine, New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, and Washington, among others. Maine is one example. Florida, Texas, and Arizona do not border Canada.

Name one state that borders Mexico.

• a.Maine
• b.Florida
• c.New York
• d.Texas✓

The states that border Mexico are California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Texas is one of them. These states share the U.S.-Mexico border.

What is Memorial Day?

• a.A holiday to honor soldiers who died in military service✓
• b.A holiday to celebrate independence
• c.A holiday for the nation's workers
• d.A holiday honoring the first Thanksgiving

Memorial Day honors members of the armed forces who died while serving the country. It is observed on the last Monday in May. It is a day of remembrance and respect.

What is Veterans Day?

• a.A holiday to honor only those who died in war
• b.A holiday to honor everyone who has served in the U.S. military✓
• c.A holiday celebrating independence
• d.A holiday honoring civil rights leaders

Veterans Day honors all people who have served in the United States armed forces. It is observed each year on November 11. It recognizes both living and deceased veterans.

When do we celebrate Independence Day?

• a.January 1
• b.November 11
• c.July 4✓
• d.December 25

Independence Day is celebrated on July 4. It marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It is a national holiday often observed with fireworks and parades.

Which of the following is a national U.S. holiday?

• a.Valentine's Day
• b.Halloween
• c.Groundhog Day
• d.Thanksgiving✓

Thanksgiving is one of the nation's federal holidays, observed on the fourth Thursday of November. Other national holidays include New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Christmas. Valentine's Day and Halloween are not federal holidays.

What does Juneteenth commemorate?

• a.The end of slavery in the United States✓
• b.The signing of the Constitution
• c.The end of World War II
• d.The nation's independence from Britain

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It marks June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation reached enslaved people in Texas. It became a federal holiday in 2021.

Which national holiday honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.?

• a.Presidents' Day
• b.Martin Luther King, Jr. Day✓
• c.Labor Day
• d.Columbus Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day honors the civil rights leader. It is observed on the third Monday in January. It recognizes his work for equality and justice.

Which national holiday honors American workers?

• a.Memorial Day
• b.Veterans Day
• c.Labor Day✓
• d.Independence Day

Labor Day honors the contributions of American workers. It is observed on the first Monday in September. It is often seen as marking the end of summer.

What is the largest U.S. state by land area?

• a.Texas
• b.California
• c.Montana
• d.Alaska✓

Alaska is the largest U.S. state by land area. It is more than twice the size of Texas, the second largest. It became the 49th state in 1959.

How many stars are on the current U.S. flag?

• a.50✓
• b.13
• c.48
• d.52

The current U.S. flag has 50 stars, one for each state. The 13 stripes represent the original colonies. The 50-star design has been in use since 1960.

What colors are the stripes on the U.S. flag?

• a.Blue and white
• b.Red and white✓
• c.Red and blue
• d.Green and white

The stripes on the U.S. flag alternate red and white. There are 13 stripes representing the original colonies. The blue field in the corner holds the 50 white stars.

Which national holiday honors former U.S. Presidents?

• a.Labor Day
• b.Veterans Day
• c.Presidents' Day✓
• d.Memorial Day

Presidents' Day honors U.S. Presidents, including George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. It is observed on the third Monday in February. It is officially known as Washington's Birthday.

What is the national bird of the United States?

• a.The turkey
• b.The robin
• c.The cardinal
• d.The bald eagle✓

The bald eagle is the national bird and a symbol of the United States. It appears on the Great Seal. It was chosen for its strength and long life.

In which city does the President of the United States live and work?

• a.Washington, D.C.✓
• b.New York City
• c.Philadelphia
• d.Los Angeles

The President lives and works in Washington, D.C., at the White House. The capital is also home to Congress and the Supreme Court. It is not part of any state.

On what date is New Year's Day celebrated in the United States?

• a.July 4
• b.January 1✓
• c.December 25
• d.November 11

New Year's Day is celebrated on January 1, the first day of the year. It is a federal holiday. Many Americans mark it with celebrations the night before.

What is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November?

• a.Independence Day
• b.Memorial Day
• c.Thanksgiving✓
• d.Veterans Day

Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day for gratitude and gathering with family. It traces back to early harvest celebrations by colonists and Native Americans.

Which winter holiday is a federal holiday in the United States?

• a.Halloween
• b.Valentine's Day
• c.Earth Day
• d.Christmas✓

Christmas, observed on December 25, is a federal holiday in the United States. It is one of several national holidays throughout the year. Halloween and Valentine's Day are popular but are not federal holidays.