Understanding the U.S. Constitution

What was the main purpose of creating the Articles of Confederation?

• To establish the first American government after independence

• To create a strong central government

• To give more power to Britain

• To establish state militaries

Under the Articles of Confederation, how many votes did each state get in Congress?

• Based on population

• One vote each

• Two votes each

• Three votes each

Which power did the national government have under the Articles?

• Collect taxes

• Regulate trade

• Conduct foreign relations

• Control state laws

The Constitutional Convention was held in which city?

• Boston

• New York

• Philadelphia

• Charleston

Who served as president of the Constitutional Convention?

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

What does "separation of powers" mean?

• States are separate from each other

• Government powers are divided among three branches

• The people are separate from government

• Laws are separate from enforcement

Which best describes federalism?

• Power shared between national and state governments

• Power held only by states

• Power held only by national government

• Power held by the president

How often are Representatives elected?

• Every 2 years

• Every 4 years

• Every 6 years

• Every 8 years

What is the minimum age to become a Senator?

• 25 years

• 30 years

• 35 years

• 40 years

Which house of Congress is based on state population?

• The Senate

• The House of Representatives

• Both houses

• Neither house