Three Branches of Government

Front

In the context of U.S. federalism, how is governmental power and authority distributed?

Back

It is shared between federal and state governments.

Answer explanation

In U.S. federalism, power is not concentrated at any one level. Instead, it is shared between federal and state governments, allowing for a division of responsibilities and authority.

Front

Prior to the Constitution, the United States had which type of government?

Back

Confederation government

Answer explanation

Prior to the Constitution, the United States operated under a Confederation government, which was a loose alliance of states. This system proved ineffective, leading to the need for a stronger federal government established by the Constitution.

Front

In a classroom discussion, Jackson argues that the power to tax is an example of

Back

Expressed power

Answer explanation

Jackson is correct; the power to tax is an expressed power, as it is explicitly granted to Congress by the Constitution. Concurrent powers, on the other hand, are shared by both state and federal governments.

Front

What powers are only given to the national government?

Back

Delegated

Answer explanation

The powers only given to the national government are called delegated powers. These include the authority to regulate interstate commerce, conduct foreign affairs, and declare war, among others.

Front

In a classroom discussion, Aiden, Noah, and Aria are debating the powers of Congress. All of the following are examples of a delegated power held by Congress except: Granting patents, Settling disputes between states

Back

Settling disputes between states

Answer explanation

Settling disputes between states is not a delegated power of Congress; it is a power reserved for the Supreme Court. Granting patents is a delegated power, as it falls under Congress's authority to regulate intellectual property.

Front

Which two groups make up Congress?

Back

Senate and House of Representatives

Answer explanation

Congress is made up of two groups: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate consists of 100 members, while the House has 435 members, both working together to create laws.

Front

What event went against Thomas Jefferson's interpretation of the Constitution?

Back

Louisiana Purchase

Answer explanation

The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 contradicted Jefferson's strict interpretation of the Constitution, as he believed the federal government had limited powers. The purchase expanded U.S. territory significantly, raising constitutional concerns.

Front

The two groups that make up the Legislative Branch are

Back

Senate and House of Representatives

Answer explanation

The Legislative Branch of the U.S. government is composed of two groups: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Supreme Court is part of the Judicial Branch, not the Legislative Branch.

Front

Thomas Jefferson originally believed in which interpretation of the Constitution?

Back

Strict

Answer explanation

Thomas Jefferson originally believed in a strict interpretation of the Constitution, meaning he advocated for a literal reading of its text and limited federal powers, contrasting with a more liberal interpretation that allows for broader powers.

Front

How would have Alexander Hamilton viewed Thomas Jefferson's decision to purchase the Louisiana Territory?

Back

He would have supported it because he has a loose interpretation of the Constitution.

Answer explanation

Hamilton would have supported Jefferson's purchase of the Louisiana Territory because he favored a loose interpretation of the Constitution, allowing for actions not explicitly outlined in the document, such as land acquisition.