APUSH ~ 3.9 - The Constitution (Heilmer's History)

What was the purpose of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787?

• To expand the federal government's power and influence

• To establish a system of federalism

• To transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution

• To define the legal relationships like marriage or divorce

Answer explanation

The purpose of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787 was to transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution. This convention aimed to establish a new framework for the government, replacing the weak central authority of the Articles with a stronger federal government. It was a crucial step in shaping the United States' system of governance and ensuring a more effective and unified nation. The convention sought to address the shortcomings of the Articles and create a more robust and balanced system of government.

What does the Supremacy Clause in Article VI of the Constitution state?

• Federal law overrides state law if they conflict

• State law overrides federal law if they conflict

• Federal and state laws have equal authority

• Federal law only applies to certain states

Answer explanation

The Supremacy Clause in Article VI of the Constitution states that federal law overrides state law if they conflict. This means that when there is a conflict between a federal law and a state law, the federal law takes precedence and must be followed. It ensures that there is a uniform system of laws throughout the country and prevents any inconsistencies or contradictions between federal and state laws.

Which branch of government is responsible for making laws?

• Legislative branch

• Executive branch

• Judicial branch

• All branches share this responsibility

Answer explanation

The Legislative branch is responsible for making laws. This branch of government has the authority to create, amend, and repeal laws. It is one of the three branches of government, along with the Executive and Judicial branches. The Legislative branch plays a crucial role in the law-making process, ensuring that laws are created in a democratic and representative manner. The other options mentioned, such as the Executive and Judicial branches, do not have the primary responsibility for making laws. All branches of government have different roles and responsibilities, but the Legislative branch specifically focuses on law-making.

What is the purpose of checks and balances in the separation of powers?

• To prevent concentration of power in one branch or individual

• To ensure the federal government has more power than states

• To establish a system of federalism

• To define the legal relationships like marriage or divorce

Answer explanation

The purpose of checks and balances in the separation of powers is to prevent concentration of power in one branch or individual. This system ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful and that each branch can limit the powers of the other branches. It helps maintain a balance of power and protects against potential abuses of power. The checks and balances system is a fundamental principle of democratic governance.

Who is responsible for enforcing laws?

• Legislative branch

• Executive branch

• Judicial branch

• All branches share this responsibility

Answer explanation

. The Executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, while the Legislative branch creates laws and the Judicial branch interprets laws.

Which branch of government interprets laws to ensure alignment with the Constitution?

• Legislative branch

• Executive branch

• Judicial branch

• All branches share this responsibility

Answer explanation

The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws to ensure they align with the Constitution. This branch of government is tasked with upholding the principles and rights outlined in the Constitution. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power and ensuring that laws are constitutional. The judicial branch is separate from the legislative and executive branches, and it is the final authority in legal matters. All branches of government do not share this responsibility; it is specifically assigned to the judicial branch.

What is the purpose of the separation of powers?

• To expand the federal government's power and influence

• To prevent concentration of power in one branch or individual

• To establish a system of federalism

• To define the legal relationships like marriage or divorce

Answer explanation

The purpose of the separation of powers is to prevent concentration of power in one branch or individual. It ensures that no single entity has complete control, promoting a system of checks and balances. This system helps to safeguard against potential abuses of power and promotes accountability. The separation of powers is a fundamental principle in democratic societies, ensuring that power is distributed and shared among different branches of government. It helps to maintain a balance of power and protect individual rights and liberties.

According to James Madison's argument in 'Federalist 51', why is checks and balances necessary?

• To prevent concentration of power in one branch or individual

• To ensure the federal government has more power than states

• To establish a system of federalism

• To define the legal relationships like marriage or divorce

Answer explanation

According to James Madison's argument in 'Federalist 51', checks and balances are necessary to prevent the concentration of power in one branch or individual. This system ensures that no single entity becomes too powerful, thereby safeguarding against potential abuses of power. It establishes a system of accountability and promotes the principles of democracy and separation of powers.

What amendment states that powers not delegated to the United States (Federal Government) belong to the states.

• 10th

• 9th

• 8th

• 7th

Answer explanation

The 10th Amendment states that powers not delegated to the United States belong to the states. This amendment ensures that the federal government does not have unlimited power and that the states have the authority to govern themselves.

If the President veto's a bill congress can take what step/s to make it a law?

• Ignore the veto and make the bill a law

• Pass the bill into law without voting

• Override the veto by 2/3 vote

• Ask the President to reconsider

Answer explanation

To override a presidential veto, Congress must vote with a two-thirds majority. This means that if the President vetoes a bill, Congress can still make it a law by gathering enough votes to surpass the President's objection.