Chapter 3: The United States Constitution

1. One of the basic ideals of American government is that

• A. government should be based on the consent of the governed.

• B. majority rule can be overruled by presidential veto.

• C. the Constitution should be easily amended.

• D. the executive branch should be the most powerful branch.

2. The statement "to secure the blessings of liberty" is

• A. listed in the Mayflower Compact.

• B. one of the six goals of government stated in the Preamble.

• C. the opening statement of the Declaration of Independence. 

• D. found in the Articles of Confederation.

3. Which important principle that ensures government by popular sovereignty is the Constitution based on?

• A. limited government with restrictions on power

• B. majority rule with minority rights

• C. protection of individual rights

•  D. all of the above

4. Which of the following is NOT part of the Preamble to the Constitution?

• A. insure domestic tranquility

• B. establish justice

• C. provide for the public's education

• D. promote the general welfare

5. Which influential document guarantees every United States citizen their rights and freedoms?

•  A. the Bill of Rights

• B. the Magna Carta

• C. the Constitution

• D. the Preamble

6. Which ideal of American government is expressed through federalism?

• A. majority rule

• B. limited government

• C. checks and balances

• D. popular sovereignty

7. 7. The federal government and the state government share all of the following powers except the power to

• A. pass laws

• B. Create banks

• C. Punish lawbreakers

• Coin Money

8. Each state has power to

• A. control trade with foreign nations.

• B. provide for the country’s defense.

• C. conduct elections.

• D. declare war.

9. The following are delegated powers EXCEPT:

• A. regulating immigration

• B. maintaining armed forces

• C. establishing post offices

• D. providing for public health and welfare

10. Which of the following is a reserved power?

• A. collecting taxes

•  B. establishing schools

• C. borrowing money

• D. none of the above