Principles of American Government

Questions about the Constitution, democratic principles, the rule of law, and the rights of citizens.

15 questions2025 test

1What is the form of government of the United States?

RepublicConstitution-based federal republicRepresentative democracy

2What is the supreme law of the land?

(U.S) Constitution

3Name one thing the U.S Constitution does.

Forms the governmentDefines powers of governmentDefines the parts of governmentProtects the rights of the people

4The U.S Constitution starts with the words “We the People.” What does “We the People” mean?

Self-governmentPopular sovereigntyConsent of the governedPeople should govern themselves(Example of) social contract

5How are changes made to the U.S Constitution?

AmendmentsThe amendment process

6What does the Bill of Rights protect?

(The basic) rights of Americans(The basic) rights of people living in the United States

7How many amendments does the U.S Constitution have?

Twenty-seven (27)

8Why is the Declaration of Independence important?

It says America is free from British control.It says all people are created equal.It identifies inherent rights.It identifies individual freedoms.

9What founding document said the American colonies were free from Britain?

Declaration of Independence

10Name two important ideas from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S Constitution.

EqualityLibertySocial contractNatural rightsLimited governmentSelf-government

11The words “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” are in what founding document?

Declaration of Independence

12What is the economic system of the United States?

CapitalismFree market economy

13What is the rule of law?

Everyone must follow the law.Leaders must obey the law.Government must obey the law.No one is above the law.

14Many documents influenced the U.S Constitution. Name one .

Declaration of IndependenceArticles of ConfederationFederalist PapersAnti-Federalist PapersVirginia Declaration of RightsFundamental Orders of ConnecticutMayflower CompactIroquois Great Law of Peace

15There are three branches of government. Why?

So one part does not become too powerfulChecks and balancesSeparation of powers

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