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Chisholm vs. Georgia (1793)
In Chisholm v. Georgia, the Supreme Court ruled that states were subject to the authority of the federal government.
This decision initiated a series of events culminating in the 11th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, an amendment limiting the judicial power of the U.S. Supreme Court. A state could be sued by a non-resident for the payment of debts giving federal courts jurisdiction over disputes between a state and a citizen of another state or foreign country. Chisholm won. Overturned by 11th Amendment.
 
Marbury vs Madison (1803)
Article II (Congress) and Article III (Judiciary)
Marbury v. Madison, arguably the most important case in Supreme Court history, was the first U.S. Supreme Court case to apply the principle of "judicial review" – the power of federal courts to void acts of Congress in conflict with the Constitution. Congress does not have the power to pass laws that override the Constitution, such as by expanding the scope of the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction. “A law repugnant to the Constitution is void.” With these words, Chief Justice John Marshall established the Supreme Court’s role in the new government. Hereafter, the Court was recognized as having the power to review all acts of Congress where constitutionality was at issue, and judge whether they abide by the Constitution.
 
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
Article I, Section 8
The Supreme Court upheld the power of the national government and denied the right of a state to tax the federal bank using the Constitution's supremacy clause.
The Court's broad interpretation of the necessary and proper clause paved the way for later rulings upholding expansive federal powers. “Let the end be legitimate … and all means which are … consistent with the letter and spirit of the Constitution, are constitutional” Chief Justice Marshall invoked this phrase to establish the right of Congress to pass laws that are “necessary and proper” to conduct the business of the U.S. government. Here, the court upheld Congress’ power to create a national bank.
 
Gibbons vs. Ogden (1824)
Article 1, Section 8 (Commerce Clause)
In 1808. the government of New York granted a steamboat company a monopoly to operate its boats on the state's waters,
which included bodies of water that stretched between states. Aaron Ogden held a license under this monopoly to operate steamboats
between New Jersey and New York. Thomas Gibbons. another steamboat operator. competed with Aaron Ogden on this same route but
held a federal coasting license issued by an act Of Congress. Ogden filed a complaint in New York court to stop Gibbons from operating his boats
claiming that the monopoly granted by New York was legal even though he operated on shared.
interstate waters. Gibbons disagreed arguing that the U. S. Constitution gave Congress the sole power over interstate commerce.
After losing twice in New York courts. Gibbons appealed the case to the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court determined that the commerce clause of the Constitution grants the federal government the power to determine how interstate commerce is conducted. Federal Law supersedes state law.
 
Charles River Bridge (1837)
Article 1, Sect. 10
The responsibility of government is to “sacredly guard” the rights of property for the prosperity of the community. The Charles River Bridge was erected in 1785 by Harvard College and some prominent Bostonians under a legal charter granted by the state of Massachusetts. The legislature granted a charter to the Warren Bridge Company in 1828 because a new bridge was badly needed. It was to be free of tolls once construction costs were covered. The proprietors of the Charles River Bridge were afraid that the new bridge would destroy the value of their stock and tried to block the construction of the Warren Bridge. The case involved a conflict between established rights on one side and the rights of the community on the other. The Court ruled that it had not entered into a binding contract with the Charles River Bridge Company that would prohibit the building of a competitive bridge. Justice Roger B. Taney stated that the rights of property must be “sacredly guarded”, the community also has rights, and the responsibility of all government is to promote the happiness and prosperity of the community
 
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)
5^th Amendment
Appeal was not processed because the Supreme Court decided that slaves were not citizens, and the Supreme Court could not free slaves. “The Constitution does not consider slaves to be U.S. citizens. Rather, they are constitutionally protected property of their masters.” Chief Justice Roger Taney authored this opinion— one of the most important and scorned in the nation’s history. Dred Scott, a slave, had moved with his master to Illinois, a free state. He moved again to a slave state, Missouri, and filed suit to gain freedom, under that state’s law of “Once free, always free.” Taney held that Scott had never been free at all and cited Constitutional grounds for placing the slavery decision in the hands of the states. In trying to put an end to the slavery controversy, Taney instead sped the nation toward civil war. The decision was later overturned by the Thirteenth Amendment.
 
Munn v. Illinois (1877)
15^th Amendment
Businesses that serve the public interest are subject to regulation by state government. The Illinois state legislature passed a law that established the maximum rates that private companies could charge in storing or transporting agricultural products. In Chicago the company of Munn and Scott was found guilty of breaking the law and the verdict was upheld on appeal before the Supreme Court. The appeal was heard along with seven other railroad cases that dealt with the violation of the regulatory legislation passed by the state of Illinois. The Court ruled that any business that served the public interest was subject to regulation by the state government. If the rates were not satisfactory according to the owners of the companies, the complaints should be taken to the legislature and not to the courts.
 
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier (1988)
The U.S Supreme Court held for the first time that public schools can limit what appears in school-sponsored student publications.
 
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)
14^th Amendment
Supreme Court case that ruled separate but equal public accommodations for the races was constitutional. Jim Crow laws are constitutional under the doctrine of ‘Separate but Equal.’
Police arrested Homer Plessy for refusing to leave a railroad car that prohibited “colored” people. Under Louisiana law, Plessy was “colored” because he was one-eighth black. The Court ruled that the race-based “Jim Crow” laws did not violate the Constitution as long as the states proffered separate but equal treatment. “The Constitution is color blind, and neither knows nor tolerates classes among citizens.” —Justice John Marshall Harlan, from the lone dissenting opinion in Plessy v. Ferguson.
 
Lochner v. New York (1905)
14^th Amendment
The Constitution bars a state from interfering with an employee’s right to contract with an employer. The above reasoning led to the “Lochner Era”—thirty-two years of wrangling between the court and legislatures. Lochner’s bakery violated a New York labor law. The court struck down the law, saying that the 14th Amendment’s Due Process Clause barred states from regulating commerce in this manner. This clause, the Court said, implied that individuals have a fundamental right to contract with employers, and states cannot interfere with that right.
 
Schenck v. United States (1919)
1^st Amendment
Speech that presents a “clear and present danger” to the security of the United States is in violation of the principle of free speech as protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution. During World War I (1918), Charles Schenck was the general secretary of the Socialist Party, and was arrested for distributing literature discouraging young men from enlisting in the armed forces. The basis for his opposition to the draft or enlistment was the first clause of the Thirteenth Amendment which prohibited slavery or involuntary servitude. Schenck appealed his conviction, and the case went to the Supreme Court. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes stated that “the character of every act depends upon the circumstances in which it is done. The most stringent protection of free speech would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theatre and causing a panic. [The] question in every case is whether the words used are used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to create a clear and present danger that they will bring about the substantive evils that Congress has a right to prevent.” Distributing the literature during peace time would have been an entirely different matter, but in time of war Schenck’s actions, according to the Court, presented a “clear and present danger” to the security of the United States.
 
Missouri Vs. Holland (1920)
Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 where Missouri argued the unconstitutionality of the act under the 10th Amendment an invasion of its sovereign right. All treaties made under authority of the U.S. shall be supreme law. Supremacy of treaties over - state constitutions. Missouri lost.
 
Near v. Minnesota (1931)
1^st Amendment
“The liberty of the press … is safeguarded from invasion by state action.” Although the First Amendment ensures a free press, until this case, it only protected the press from federal laws, not state laws. Minnesota shut down J. M. Near’s Saturday Press for publishing vicious antisemitic and racist remarks. In what is regarded as the landmark free press decision, the Court ruled that a state cannot engage in “prior restraint”; that is, with rare exceptions, it cannot stop a person from publishing or expressing a thought.
 
West Coast Hotel v. Parrish (1937)
14^th Amendment
“The switch in time that saved nine.” F. D. R. rallied against the Court’s holdings in the Lochner era. The Court struck down New Deal laws, designed to pull the country out of the Depression, on grounds that they interfered with a worker’s “right to contract.” F. D. R. pledged to expand the Court and pack it with pro “New Deal” members. In this case, the Court rejected the Lochner era decisions and said the government could regulate commerce.
 
National Labor Relations Board (NRLB) vs. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. (1937)
Jones Laughlin Steel Corp. Refused to comply with the National Labor Relations Board that protected labor's right to organize. Court upheld constitutionality of NLRB. Congress has the power to regulate labor.
 
W. Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette (1943)
1^st Amendment
Board of Education wanted to expel students who didn't do flag salute. Freedom of religion. Barnette (the Jehovah witnesses won this case).
In Barnette, the Court held that the First Amendment prevents school officials from compelling a student to stand and salute the flag during the Pledge of Allegiance. Although public schools may continue to have a Pledge of Allegiance ceremony every morning, students may not be forced to participate or be punished for not participating.
 
Korematsu vs United States (1944)
5^th Amendment
Why is Korematsu v. United States historically significant?
In December 1944, the Supreme Court handed down one of its most controversial decisions, which upheld the constitutionality of internment
camps during World War II. Today, the Korematsu v. United States decision has been rebuked but was only finally overturned in 2018
 
Brown v. Board of Education (1954)
14^th Amendment
The Supreme Court overruled Plessy v. Ferguson declared that racially segregated facilities are inherently unequal and ordered all public schools desegregated. In 1896, the Supreme Court ruled in Plessy v. Ferguson that racially segregated public facilities were legal, so long as the facilities for Black people and whites were equal. The ruling constitutionally sanctioned laws barring African Americans from sharing the same buses, schools and other public facilities as whites—known as “Jim Crow” laws—and established the “separate but equal” doctrine that would stand for the next six decades. “In the field of public education, the doctrine of ‘separate but equal’ has no place.” This unanimous decision marked the beginning of the end for the “Separate but Equal” era that started with Plessy, and the start of a new period of American race relations. With Brown, desegregation of public schools began—as did resistance to it. Ten contentious years later, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 made racial equality a matter of federal law.
 
Mapp v. Ohio (1961)
4^th Amendment
Evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against "unreasonable searches and seizures," may not be used in criminal prosecutions in state courts, as well as federal courts. Evidence that is illegally obtained by the state may not be used against a defendant in court. Until Mapp, only the federal government was barred from using illegally obtained evidence. So, when local police entered Dolly Mapp’s home without a search warrant and arrested her for possessing obscene books, her conviction initially stood. The Court overturned her conviction, however, and extended the Constitutional rule to apply to the states and their subdivisions. “I know it when I see it.” —Justice Potter Stewart’s definition of obscenity in Jacobellis v. Ohio, 1964
 
Baker v. Carr (1962)
14^th Amendment
“One person, one vote.” The above phrase was not authored until a year after Baker, but it has its philosophical roots here. In this case, a group of Tennessee voters sued the state, claiming its voting districts diluted their political power. Until this point, the Court refused to decide this kind of case, leaving such “political questions” to the states. Baker, however, held that the states must meet a Constitutional standard for appointment: districts cannot be drawn in such a way that they violate the Equal Protection clause of the 14th Amendment.
 
Engel v. Vitale (1962)
1^st Amendment
Separation between Church and State in schools. S.C. prayer in public schools is unconstitutional, violates separation of church and state and freedom of religion (First Amendment). Public institutions (i.e., a school system) cannot require prayer. Lawrence Roth, an avowed atheist, objected that the Long Island, New York School System was forcing his two children to recite a 22-word prayer at the beginning of the day. There were actually four other parents involved in the suit against school board president William Vitale, Jr. The Supreme Court ruled that although the prayer was nonsectarian and noncompulsory, “it is no part the business of government to compose official prayers.” Because New York provided the prayer, it indirectly approved religion and that was unconstitutional.
 
Gideon Vs. Wainwright (1963)
6^th Amendment
State courts are required under the Sixth Amendment of the Constitution to provide counsel in criminal cases for defendants who are unable to afford their own attorneys. Defendants in criminal cases have an absolute right to counsel. Too poor to afford a lawyer, Clarence Earl Gideon was convicted for breaking into a poolroom—a felony crime in Florida. He appealed to the Supreme Court, which ruled that the government must provide free counsel to accused criminals who cannot pay for it themselves. At first, the ruling applied to felonies only. It was later extended to cover any cases where the penalty was six months imprisonment or longer
 
New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964)
1^st Amendment
To win a libel case, public figures must prove “actual malice” on the part of the writer. In 1964, the Times published an ad critical of an elected commissioner of an Alabama city. The commissioner sued for libel and won. The Supreme Court overturned that ruling, and said that, to ensure “uninhibited, robust and wide-open” debate about public figures, the law must protect writers from libel suits. Thus, unless the words are penned with “knowing falsity” or “reckless disregard for the truth,” a writer cannot be successfully sued by a public figure for libel.
 
Griswold v. Connecticut (1965)
14^th Amendment
The Constitution implies a right to privacy in matters of contraception between married people. Estelle Griswold, the director of a Planned Parenthood clinic, broke an 1879 Connecticut law banning contraception. The Court struck down the law, making it a landmark case in which the Court read the Constitution to protect individual privacy. This was to be the foundation of further privacy rulings, including the right to privacy in matters of abortion.
 
Miranda vs. Arizona (1966)
5^th & 6^th Amendments
This case proves that the 5th Amendment requires that individuals arrested for a crime must be advised of their right to remain silent and to have counsel present.  This case proves that the 5th Amendment requires that individuals arrested for a crime must be advised of their right to remain silent and to have counsel present. “You have the right to remain silent …” After police questioning, Ernesto Miranda confessed to kidnapping and raping a woman. The Court struck down his conviction, on grounds that he was not informed of his 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination. Hereafter, the Miranda warnings have been a standard feature of arrest procedures
 
Tinker Vs. Des Moines (1969)
1^st Amendment
The court decided that the First Amendment applied to public schools, and that administrators would have to demonstrate constitutionally valid reasons for any specific regulation of speech in the classroom. School dress codes are not in violation of the First Amendment’s guarantee of the freedom of expression. The Des Moines public school system made a rule stating that any student wearing an armband would be asked to remove it on the grounds that the wearing of such would cause a disturbance. If the student refused to comply, the consequence was suspension from school. Three public school students wore black armbands to express their opposition to the United States’ involvement in the Vietnam War. They refused to remove the armbands and were suspended. The parents of the students argued that the students’ actions were not interfering with the rights of the other students. The case was argued in 1968 and the ruling was “handed down” in 1969. The Court ruled that the wearing of armbands was “closely akin to ‘pure speech’”, and this was protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution. The rule banning armbands lacked the proper justification for enforcement. This ruling eventually had an effect on school dress codes in that the style of clothing one wears indicates an expression of that individual.
 
San Antonio Independent School District v. Rodriguez (1973)
14^th Amendment
The Constitution does not guarantee a fundamental right to education. In 1968, a group of low-income parents sued San Antonio, claiming the city’s wealthy precincts had better schools. The Court upheld the districting plan, saying that the Constitution did not guarantee an education, and upholding this tenet: The Constitution does not compel government to provide services like education or welfare to the people. Rather, it places boundaries on government action.
 
Roe vs Wade (1973)
14^th Amendment
The Constitutionally implied right to privacy protects a woman’s choice in matters of abortion. Norma McCorvey sought an abortion in Texas, but was denied under state law. The Court struck down that law, on grounds that it unconstitutionally restricted the woman’s right to choose. The opinion set forth guidelines for state abortion regulations; states could restrict a woman’s right to choose only in the later stages of the pregnancy. Later modified but not overruled, the decision stands as one of the Court’s most controversial.
 
United States vs Nixon (1974)
Nixon, 418 U.S. 683 (1974), was a landmark decision of the Supreme Court of the United States in which the Court unanimously ordered President Richard Nixon to deliver tape recordings and other subpoenaed materials related to the Watergate scandal to a federal district court.” “Neither separation of powers, nor the need for confidentiality can sustain unqualified Presidential immunity from the judicial process.” President Nixon sought precisely this type of immunity, rather than relinquishing the famous White House tapes during the Watergate scandal. The Court unanimously rejected his plea as an unconstitutional power play. The House began impeachment proceedings shortly thereafter, and two weeks after the ruling, Nixon resigned
 
Regents Of The University Of Ca. vs Bakke (1978)
14^th Amendment
Bakke was a landmark case that effectively ended the use of racial quota systems for affirmative-action purposes. However, some 25 years later, the Court upheld a law-school admissions policy that considered race as merely one factor among many.
 
New Jersey vs TLO (1985)
4^th Amendment
Holding that public school administrators can search a student's belongings if they have a reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.  In a juvenile court, T.L.O. argued that her Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures had been violated. The court sided with the school, and T.L.O. took her case to the New Jersey Supreme Court, which later found that the search was unreasonable, and the evidence could not be used.
 
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier (1988)
1^st Amendment
The U.S Supreme Court held for the first time that public schools can limit what appears in school-sponsored student publications. In Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988), the Supreme Court held that schools may restrict what is published in student newspapers if the papers have not been established as public forums.
 
Texas vs Johnson (1989)
1^st Amendment
Flag burning: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 5-4 decision in favor of Johnson. The high court agreed that symbolic speech – no matter how offensive to some – is protected under the First Amendment. The Constitution protects desecration of the flag as a form of symbolic speech. Johnson burned a flag in front of a Dallas building in 1984. He was convicted of violating a Texas law that made it a crime to intentionally desecrate a state or national flag. Justice Brennan wrote for a 5-to-4 majority that “Government may not prohibit the expression of an idea because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable.”
 
Cruzan v. Missouri Dept. of Health (1990)
14^th Amendment
While the Constitution protects a person’s right to reject life-preserving medical treatment (their “right to die”), states can regulate that interest if the regulation is reasonable. Nancy Cruzan lay in a permanent vegetative state as a result of injuries suffered in an auto accident. Her parents sought to withdraw life-sustaining treatment and allow her to die, claiming she’d said this would be her wish under such circumstances. The state refused, and the Supreme Court upheld the state’s guidelines for the continuation of medical treatment, which allowed withdrawal of treatment only with clear and convincing evidence that this is what the patient would have wanted. The Court said that, given the need to protect against abuses of such situations, the state can continue life support as long as its standards for doing so are reasonable.
 
Bush v. Gore (2000)
14^th Amendment
The court ruled that manual recounts of presidential ballots in the Nov. 2000 election could not proceed because of inconsistent evaluation. The Supreme Court's decision in Bush v. Gore was among the most controversial in U.S. history, as it allowed the vote certification made by Florida Secretary of State Katherine Harris to stand, giving Bush Florida's 25 electoral votes.
 
D.C. vs Heller (2008)
2^nd Amendment
Heller, case in which the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2008, held (5–4) that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to possess firearms independent of service in a state militia and to use firearms for traditionally lawful purposes, including self-defense within the home
 
Citizens United States VS Federal Election Commission (2010)
1^st Amendment
The court held 5–4 that the freedom of speech clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from restricting independent expenditures
for political campaigns by corporations, including nonprofit corporations, labor unions, and other associations.
 
 
Brown Vs. Board of Education; Topeka (1955)
"Separate but equal has place in Education." Ruled that Linda Brown had been deprived of equal protection under the 14th Amendment (this amendment was followed by the guidelines for desegregation of the schools.) Declared segregated schools equal.
 
Mapp Vs. Ohio (1961)
Mrs. Mapp’s home was searched illegally, and she was charged in Ohio for obscene material. The Supreme Court overruled the state court and stated that the 4th Amendment is applicable to the states.
 
Baker Vs. Carr- (1962)
State courts have authority to supervise an appointment of a state legislator. High court did not rule in favor of Baker but said that he had a point. Feds - supervise a proportion of state legs.
 
School District of Abington (Pa.) Vs. Schemp (1963)
The law or constitution cannot enhance or inhibit religion. Schemp's didn't want prayer in school; they were upheld.
 
Murray Vs. Curlett (Md.) (1963)
(Prayer) Result religious exercises in public schools were "unconstitutional"; state is neutral, Separation of church & state. Mrs. Murray (atheist) didn't want prayer in school. She won the case.
 
Miranda Vs. Arizona (1966)
Supreme court underlined its intention to accused persons from being forced to confess. Suspects had to be immediately informed that they have the following rights: -Right to remain silent, right to legal representation, and to be informed that anything they say can be used against them in a court of law.
 
Which court cases limited the rights of African Americans?
Gideon vs Wainwright (1963)
Brown vs Board of Ed. (1954)
 
This case established the policy of judicial review
a) Brown vs. Board of Education
b) Tinker vs. Des Moines
c) Marbury vs. Madison
d) Morse vs. Frederick
 
This case ended segregation in public schools
a) Plessy vs. Fergesr:ci
b) Brown vs. Board of Education
c) New Jersey v. T. LO
d) Bethel School v. Fraser
 
This case advocated free speech in the schools in the form of an anti-war protest
a) Tinker vs. Des Manes
b) Gideon vs. Wainwright
c) Mapp vs. Ohio
d) Morse v. Frederick
 
This case guaranteed certain rights for individuals being arrested
a) Marbury vs. Madison
b) Tinker vs. Des Moines
c) Hazelwood vs. Kuhlmeter
d) Miranda vs. Anzona
 
This decision allowed for women to have abortions
a) Roe vs. Wade
b) Griswold v. Connecticut
c) Mapp v. Ohio
d) New Jersey v. T.L.O
 
In Plessy V. Ferguson, the Supreme Court ruled that segregation was
a) unconstitutional
b) legal in all forms
c) legal as long as the facilities were equal
d) protected by the First Amendment
 
This case determined that flag burning is protected by free speech.
a) Texas vs. Johnson
b) Mapp vs. Ohio
c) Miranda vs. Arizona
d) McCulloch vs. Maryland
 
This case determined that public prayer and Bible readings in school violates the Amendment.
a) Board of Ed. v. Earls
b) Engel v. Vitale
c) Brown v. Board of Education
d) Plessy v. Ferguson
 
This case determined that schools only need reasonable suspicion (not a warrant) to search students as a necessary
step to provide a safe learning environment
a) Bethal School District v. Fraser
b) Gideon v. Wainwright
c) Tinker v. Des Moines
d) New Jersey v. TLC)
 
In this case the court ruled the policy (a predetermined number) based on race or gender as part of affirmative action
in hiring or admission practices is unconstitutional.
a) Regents of the University of California v. Bakke
b) Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas
c) Grutter v. Bollinger
d) Roe v. Wade
 
During VWVII, the Supreme Court ruled that relocation of Japanese American citizens to internment camps was constitutional in this case.
a) Korernatsu v. US
b) University Of California v. Bakke
c) Roe v. Wade
d) Gideon v. Wainwright
 
This 1857 ruling declared slaves as property and not citizens and it nullified the Missouri Compromise of 1820.
a) Dred Scott v Sandford
b) McCulloch v Maryland
c) Engel v. Vitale
d) Grutter v. Bollinger
 
In Tinker v. Des Moines. the Tinkers were suspended from school for
a) holding up signs in the cafeteria.
b) wearing black armbands…
c) giving emotional speeches during c!ass.
d) holding a "sit in" in the principal's office.
 
Which lessons did future U.S leaders learn from the 1974 Supreme Court Case U.S v. Nixon
a) The president is accountable for obeying laws
b) The president is accountable for enforcing the law
c) The president is not allowed to hold secret talks with foreign governments
d) The president is not allowed to have private meetings with Cabinet members
 
States must pay for public defenders as a result of which U.S Supreme Court case?
a) DC. v. Heller
b) Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier
c) Gideon v. Wainwright
d) Miranda v. Arizona
 
Evidence that is illegally obtained by the state may not be used against a defendant in court based on this case.
a) Plessy v. Ferguson
b) Korematsu v. United States
c) Mapp v. Ohio
d) Engel v. Vitale
 
Which of the following cases ruled that achieving "a diverse student body" was a "compelling public purpose,", but the method of a rigid quota of admission slots assigned on the basis of race violated the Fourteenth Amendment's equal protection clause?
Regents of the University of California v. Bakke 1978
 
Which of the following cases established the precedent that the Supreme Court has the power of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison 1803
 
Which of the following cases established the precedent that the U.S. Congress had the power to establish a bank based
on the necessary and proper clause?
McCullough v. Maryland 1819
 
Which of the following cases limited power held by the states:
Dred Scott v. Sandford 1857 and U.S. v. Nixon 1971
 
Which of the following cases rule that states could not put limits on abortion access in the first trimester of pregnancy:
Roe v. Wade 1973
 
Which of the following cases established a right to privacy in the marital bedroom:
Griswold v. Connecticut 1965
 
Which of the following cases ruled evidence of crime collected outside of the parameters of the search cannot be used in court:
Mapp v. Ohio 1961
 
Which of the following cases required states to provide attorneys to criminal defendants who cannot afford their own:
Gideon v. Wainwright 1963
 
Which of the following cases required state law enforcement to read suspects their constitutional rights before custodial interrogation:
Miranda v. Arizona 1966
 
Which of the following cases determined standardless manual recounts violate the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the Constitution:
Bush v. Gore 2000
 
Which of the following is a case that centered on the first amendment:
Engle v. Vitale 1962
 
Which of the following cases centered on political speech paid for by unions and corporations?
Citizen's United v. Federal Elections Commission 2010
 
A federal judge dismissed a libel lawsuit by Sarah Palin because she could not prove actual malice on the part of the New York Times. Which of the following cases reflects this position?
New York Times Co. V. Sullivan 1964
 
Which of the following cases established the "separate but equal" precedent?
Plessy v Ferguson 1896
 
Which of the following cases overturned the "separate but equal" precedent in education?
Brown v. Board of Education 1954
 
Which of the following cases focused on the fourteenth amendment?
Plessy v Ferguson 1896 and Brown v. Board of Education 1954
 
Which of the following cases limited state endorsed religious prayer in public schools?
Engle v. Vitale 1962
 
Which of the following cases centered on the first amendment right of freedom of the press?
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier 1988
 
Which of the following cases declared "students did not lose their First Amendment rights to freedom of speech when they stepped onto school property"?
Tinker v. Des Moines 1969
 
Which Supreme Court ruling held that the authors of the US Constitution did not intend for African Americans to be US citizens?
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)
 
Which US Supreme Court case focused on whether and enslaved person, having lived in free territory, should be free?
Dred Scott vs Sandford
 
Which US Supreme Court decision was based on the free exercise clause?
West Virginia vs Barnett
 
Which of the following pairs of supreme court cases resulted in limiting the power is for local governments?
Brown vs board of education
District of Columbia vs Heller
 
Which US Supreme Court case established the power of judicial review?
Marbury vs Madison
 
Which of the following cases impacted the interpretation of the 14^th amendment?
Brown versus Board of Education
 
Which of the following pairs of cases impacted first amendment rights?
Texas versus Johnson
Hazelwood versus Kuhlmeier
 
Which US supreme court decision was based on the first amendment?
Tinker versus Des Moines (1969)
 
Which US Supreme Court decision resulted in reduced powers for state governments?
Row vs Wade
 
Which US supreme court case focused on executive privilege?
United States versus Nixon (1974)
 
Which US supreme court holding impacted the way that religious practice was approached in public schools?
Engel vs Vitale (1962)
 
Which of the following cases impacted fourth amendment protections at the state level?
Mapp vs Ohio (1961)
 
To the following cases reinforce the power of the courts?
Marbury vs Madison
 
Which US supreme court decision focused on how states count popular votes for president and Vice President?
Bush vs Gore (2000)
 
Which of the following pairs of cases focused on the rights of public-school students?
Tinker vs Des Moines
Hazelwood vs Kuhlmeier
 
Which of the following cases reinforced the federal government’s authority to run a federal institution without
interference by a state?
McCulloh vs Maryland (1819)
 
Which supreme court case established the precedent of judicial review in 1803?
Marbury v. Madison
 
Which of the following cases resulted in a decision that undermined civil rights and liberties in prioritization of national security?
Korematsu v. United States
 
Use the passage below, from a landmark Supreme Court case opinion, to answer the question that follows.
“So if a law be in opposition to the constitution; if both the law and the constitution apply to a particular case, so that the court
must either decide that case conformably to the law, disregarding the constitution, or conformably to the constitution, disregarding
the law: the court must determine which of these conflicting rules governs the case.”
Which Supreme Court case established the precedent described in the opinion?
Marbury v. Madison
 
This established the precedent described in the opinion.
Marbury v. Madison
 
Which of the following cases resulted in a decision that undermined civil rights and liberties in prioritization of national security?
Korematsu v. United States
 
A person is charged with felony breaking and entering. During the court proceedings, the defendant requested an attorney and was denied the
right to counsel. Which Supreme Court case overturned the trial court's decision, due to lack of counsel?
Gideon v. Wainwright
 
Separation between Church and State in schools. S.C. prayer in public schools is unconstitutional, violates separation of church and state and freedom of religion (First Amendment)
Engel v. Vitale (1962)
 
Evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, which protects against "unreasonable searches and seizures," may not be used in criminal prosecutions in state courts, as well as federal courts.
Mapp v. Ohio (1961)
 
14th amendment Due Process Clause allows requirements for state delinquency proceedings. established the principle that young persons have constitutional rights
In Re Gault (1967)
 
Supreme Court case that ruled separate but equal public accommodations for the races was constitutional
Plessy v. Ferguson 1896
 
state courts are required under the Sixth Amendment of the Constitutionto provide counsel in criminal cases for defendants who are unable to mafford their own attorneys.
Gideon V Wainwright (1963)
 
The court decided that the First Amendment applied to public schools, and that administrators would have to demonstrate constitutionally valid reasons for any specific regulation of speech in the classroom.
Tinker V. Des Moines (1968)
 
The Supreme Court overruled Plessy v. Ferguson, declared that racially segregated facilities are inherently unequal and ordered all public schools desegregated.
Brown v. Board of Education (1954)
 
1857 Supreme Court decision that stated that slaves were not citizens. that living in a free state or territory, did not free slaves
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)
 
The U.S Supreme Court held for the first time that public schools can limit what appears in school-sponsored student publications.
Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier (1988)
 
This case proves that the 5th Amendment requires that individuals arrested for a crime must be advised of their right to remain silent and to have counsel present.
Miranda vs. Arizona 1961
 
The court ruled that manual recount of presidential ballots in the Nov. 2000 election could not proceed because inconsistent evaluation
Bush v. Gore (2000)
 
The Supreme Court upheld the power of the national government and denied the right of a state to tax the federal bank using the Constitution's supremacy clause. The Court's broad interpretation of the necessary and proper clause paved the way for later rulings upholding expansive federal powers
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
 
2nd Amendment guarantees an individual right to own a firearm
DC v. Heller (2008)
 
States must obey the decision of the Supreme Court and cannot refuse to follow.
Cooper v. Aaron (1958)
 
Students don't have. to salute to the flag
West Virginia v. Barnette (1943)
 
All states to license marriages between same-sex couples
Obergefell v. Hodges (1943)
 
Prevents states from making the use of contraception by married legal couples
Griswold v. Connecticut (1965)
 
1st Amendment does not protect the speaker from government action
Schenck v. U.S. (1919)
 
Federal government could not establish military courts
Ex Parte Milligan (1866)
 
Burning the American flag was symbolic speech and protected the 1^st Amendment
Texas v. Johnson (1989)
 
"Right to privacy" protects a pregnant woman's choice
Roe v. Wade (1973)
 
1st Amendment limits the ability of public officials to sue for defamation
New York Times v. Sullivan (1964)
 
The president cannot shield himself from producing evidence in a criminal prosecution
U.S. v. Nixon (1974)
 
Restraints on speech are generally unconstitutional
Near v. Minnesota (1931)
 
Anti-corruption interest is not sufficient to displace the speech in question
Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010)
 
Only the powet of the federal government and not state
Barron v. Baltimore (1833)
 
Forbids states from enacting any legislation that would interfere. with
Congress' right to regulate commerce among separate states
Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)
 
University admissions criteria which used race as a definite and
exclusive basis for admission. Violated the 14 Amendment
Regents of University of California v. Bakke (1978)
 
The U.S. Supreme Court enabled which government practices to continue in its ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson?
segregating public facilities
 
Which 1954 supreme court case declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional?
Brown v. Board of education
 
Which US supreme court decision was based on the necessary and proper clause?
McCulloh v. Maryland
 
Which of the following cases held that reproductive rights were an element of the right to privacy under the Bill of Rights & the 14^th amendment?
Roe v.s Wade (1973)
 
Which U.S Supreme Court decision was based on the equal protection clause?
Plessy v.s Ferguson
 
What change did the supreme court case Dred Scott v. Sandford make to American life?
It declared that blacks were not citizens and did not have the rights of citizens.
 
A person is charged with felony breaking and entering. During the court proceedings, the defendant requested an attorney
and was denied the right to counsel. Which Supreme Court case overturned the trial court’s decision, due to lack of counsel?
Gideon v. Wainwright
   
What are some of the principles in the Constitution?
Majority Rule, Minority Rights, Equality Under the Law
 
Use the provided Preamble to the United States Constitution to answer the question.
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the
common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this
Constitution for the United States of America."
Which of the following statements best describes the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution?
Governments are accountable to the citizens over whom they rule.
 
What amendment gives citizenship to all persons born in the United States?
14th Amendment
 
What founding document was written in 1787?
(U.S.) Constitution
 
The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers.
James Madison
Alexander Hamilton
John Jay
Publius
 
Why were the Federalist Papers important?
They helped people understand the (U.S.) Constitution.
They supported passing the (U.S.) Constitution.
 
Use the passage below, which was included in the Declaration of Sentiments adopted at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848,
to answer the question that follows.
We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. (Original work published 1848)
Which of the following documents influenced the aims and strategies of the authors of the Declaration of Sentiments?
Declaration of Independence
 
Which political philosopher's ideas are best represented in the Declaration of Independence?
John Locke
 
In the Mayflower Compact, Plymouth settlers pledged to unite into "a civil body politic" and agreed to make and abide by laws that
"insured the general Good of the Colony."
What founding document did this set a precedent for?
U.S. Constitution
 
Which person is considered to be the principal author of the U.S. Constitution?
James Madison
 
Why did colonists living under British rule protest British tax policies?
The colonists claimed that the tax policies violated their political rights.
 
Government by the people and the separation of powers are the main principles of which founding document?
U.S. Constitution
 
Use the excerpt below, from the Thirteenth Amendment, to answer the question that follows.
"Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted,
shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction."
Which of the following contains a clause that may have served as an inspiration for the above language?
Northwest Ordinances
 
The Mayflower Compact includes a pledge to ensure that all citizens look out for the general good of the colony.
Based on this, what impact has the Mayflower Compact had on modern understanding of the purpose of government in the United States?
The government should provide equal protection under the law.
 
Which of the following statements regarding the Monroe Doctrine is accurate?
The Monroe Doctrine prohibited future European colonization in the Western Hemisphere.
 
By what process were eighteen-year-olds fully granted the right to vote?
constitutional amendment
 
Use the passage below, taken from a presidential nomination speech, to answer the question that follows.
"What do the people of America want more than anything else? To my mind, they want two things: work, . . . and with work,
a reasonable measure of security . . ." Source: National Archives and Records Administration Based on the passage,
which government program would the speaker support?
New Deal
 
In order to attract investment and business and reduce expenses, a state legislature proposes passing a law that removes the need for certain
federal regulatory features relating to office and factory environments.
Which legislative action would most likely cause the U.S. Supreme Court to decide that this violated the Supremacy Clause?
D. Occupational Safety and Health Act
 
How does the Magna Carta provide a foundation for the English perspective of participatory governance?
It establishes a basis for individual rights.
 
What led to the creation of the English Declaration of Rights (sometimes known as the "English Bill of Rights") in 1689?
Tension over who should rule; an individual or the people
 
Who is considered to have been the most influential Enlightenment philosopher on the Declaration of Independence?
John Locke
 
What is the significance of the Mayflower Compact?
It is the first attempt by Europeans of self-government in the colonies.
 
What aspect of the U.S. Constitution was influenced by Montesquieu?
Separation of powers
 
For what purpose were the Federalist Papers written?
To support ratification of the Constitution and explain its commitment to limited government.
 
What did the anti-Federalist want the Constitution to include?
A bill of rights
 
What rights are listed in the Declaration of Independence?
Life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness
 
For what purpose did Thomas Paine write Common Sense?
To encourage the colonists to demand independence from Great Britain
 
Which of the following were thought to be weaknesses of the government laid out by the Articles of Confederation?
no power to tax and no executive or judiciary
 
Clause in the Fourteenth Amendment that forbids any state to deny to any person equal protection of the laws. This clause is the major constitutional restraint on the power of governments to discriminate against persons because of race, national origin, or sex.
Equal Protection Clause
 
The series of essays written to counter and defeat the proposed U.S. Constitution; argued against a strong central government and pushed for more protection of the people's rights
Anti-Federalist Papers
   
What is the economic system of the United States? *
Capitalism
Free market economy
 
What 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.
 
Many documents influenced the U.S. Constitution. Name one.
Declaration of Independence
Articles of Confederation
Federalist Papers
Anti-Federalist Papers
Virginia Declaration of Rights
Fundamental Orders of Connecticut
Mayflower Compact
Iroquois Great Law of Peace
 
There are three branches of government. Why?
So, one part does not become too powerful
Checks and balances
Separation of powers
 
Name the three branches of government.
Legislative, executive, and judicial
Congress, president, and the courts
 
The President of the United States is in charge of which branch of government?
Executive branch
 
What part of the federal government writes laws?
(U.S.) Congress
(U.S. or national) legislature
Legislative branch
 
What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?
Senate and House (of Representatives)
 
Name one power of the U.S. Congress. *
Writes laws
Declares war
Makes the federal budget
 
How many U.S. senators are there?
One hundred (100)
 
How long is a term for a U.S. senator?
Six (6) years
 
Who is one of your state’s U.S. senators now?
Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents and residents of U.S. territories should answer that D.C. (or the territory where the applicant lives) has no U.S. senators.]
 
How many voting members are in the House of Representatives?
Four hundred thirty-five (435)
 
How long is a term for a member of the House of Representatives?
Two (2) years
 
Why do U.S. representatives serve shorter terms than U.S. senators?
To more closely follow public opinion
 
How many senators does each state have?
Two (2)
 
Why does each state have two senators?
Equal representation (for small states)
The Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)
 
Name your U.S. representative.
Answers will vary. [Residents of territories with nonvoting Delegates or Resident Commissioners may provide
the name of that Delegate or Commissioner. Also acceptable is any statement that the territory has no (voting)
representatives in Congress.]
 
What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now? *
Visit uscis.gov/citizenship/test updates for the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
 
Who does a U.S. senator represent?
Citizens of their state
People of their state
 
Who elects U.S. senators?
Citizens from their state
 
Who does a member of the House of Representatives represent?
Citizens in their (congressional) district
Citizens in their district
People from their (congressional) district
People in their district
 
Who elects members of the House of Representatives?
Citizens from their (congressional) district
 
Some states have more representatives than other states. Why?
the state’s population
they have more people
some states have more people
 
The President of the United States is elected for how many years? *
Four (4) years
 
The President of the United States can serve only two terms. Why?
Due to  the 22nd Amendment
To keep the president from becoming too powerful
 
What is the name of the President of the United States now? *
Biden
 
What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now? *
Visit uscis.gov/citizenship/testupdates for the name of the Vice President of the United States.
 
If the president can no longer serve, who becomes president?
The Vice President (of the United States)
 
Name one power of the president.
Signs bills into law
Vetoes bills
Enforces laws
Commander in Chief (of the military)
Chief diplomat
 
Who is Commander in Chief of the U.S. military?
The President (of the United States)
 
Who signs bills to become laws?
The President (of the United States)
 
Who vetoes bills? *
The President (of the United States)
 
Who appoints federal judges?
The President (of the United States)
 
The executive branch has many parts. Name one.
President (of the United States)
Cabinet
Federal departments and agencies
 
What does the President’s Cabinet do?
Advises the President (of the United States)
 
What are two Cabinet-level positions?
Attorney General
Secretary of Agriculture
Secretary of Commerce
Secretary of Defense
Secretary of Education
Secretary of Energy
Secretary of Health and Human Services
Secretary of Homeland Security
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
Secretary of the Interior
Secretary of Labor
Secretary of State
Secretary of Transportation
Secretary of the Treasury
Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Vice President (of the United States)
 
Why is the Electoral College important?
It decides who is elected president.
It provides a compromise between the popular election of the president and congressional selection.
 
What is one part of the judicial branch?
Supreme Court
Federal Courts
 
What does the judicial branch do?
Reviews laws
Explains laws
Resolves disputes (disagreements) about the law
Decides if a law goes against the (U.S.) Constitution
 
What is the highest court in the United States? *
Supreme Court
 
How many seats are on the Supreme Court?
Nine (9)
 
How many Supreme Court justices are usually needed to decide a case?
Five (5)
 
How long do Supreme Court justices serve?
(For) life
Lifetime appointment
(Until) retirement
 
Supreme Court justices serve for life. Why?
To be independent (of politics)
To limit outside (political) influence
 
Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now?
Visit uscis.gov/citizenship/testupdates for the name of the Chief Justice of the United States.
 
Name one power that is only for the federal government.
Print paper money
Mint coins
Declare war
Create an army
Make treaties
Set foreign policy
 
Name one power that is only for the states.
Provide schooling and education
Provide protection (police)
Provide safety (fire departments)
Give a driver’s license
Approve zoning and land use
 
What is the purpose of the 10th Amendment?
(It states that the) powers not given to the federal government belong to the states or to the people.
 
Who is the governor of your state now? *
Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents should answer that D.C. does not have a governor.]
 
What is the capital of your state?
Answers will vary. [District of Columbia residents should answer that D.C. is not a state and does not have a
capital. Residents of U.S. territories should name the capital of the territory.
 
There are four amendments to the U.S. Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them.
Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote).
You don’t have to pay (a poll tax) to vote.
Any citizen can vote. (Women and men can vote.)
A male citizen of any race (can vote).
 
Who can vote in federal elections, run for federal office, and serve on a jury in the United States?
Citizens
Citizens of the United States
U.S. citizens
 
What are three rights of everyone living in the United States?
Freedom of expression
Freedom of speech
Freedom of assembly
Freedom to petition the government
Freedom of religion
The right to bear arms
 
What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance? *
The United States
The flag
 
Name two promises that new citizens make in the Oath of Allegiance.
Give up loyalty to other countries
Defend the (U.S.) Constitution
Obey the laws of the United States
Serve in the military (if needed)
Serve (help, do important work for) the nation (if needed)
Be loyal to the United States
 
How can people become United States citizens?
Naturalize
Derive citizenship
Be born in the United States
 
What are two examples of civic participation in the United States?
Vote
Run for office
Join a political party
Help with a campaign
Join a civic group
Join a community group
Give an elected official your opinion (on an issue)
Contact elected officials
Support or oppose an issue or policy
Write to a newspaper
 
What is one-way Americans can serve their country?
Vote
Pay taxes
Obey the law
Serve in the military
Run for office
Work for local, state, or federal government
 
Why is it important to pay federal taxes?
Required by law
All people pay to fund the federal government
Required by the (U.S.) Constitution (16th Amendment)
Civic duty
 
It is important for all men age 18 through 25 to register for the Selective Service. Name one reason why.
Required by law
Civic duty
Makes the draft fair, if needed
 
The colonists came to America for many reasons. Name one.
Freedom
Political liberty
Religious freedom
Economic opportunity
Escape persecution
 
Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived? *
American Indians
Native Americans
 
What group of people was taken and sold as slaves?
Africans
People from Africa
 
What war did the Americans fight to win independence from Britain?
American Revolution
The (American) Revolutionary War
War for (American) Independence
 
Name one reason why the Americans declared independence from Britain.
High taxes
Taxation without representation
British soldiers stayed in Americans’ houses (boarding, quartering)
They did not have self-government
Boston Massacre
Boston Tea Party (Tea Act)
Stamp Act
Sugar Act
Townshend Acts
Intolerable (Coercive) Acts
 
Who wrote the Declaration of Independence? *
(Thomas) Jefferson
 
When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?
July 4, 1776
 
The American Revolution had many important events. Name one.
(Battle of) Bunker Hill
Declaration of Independence
Washington Crossing the Delaware (Battle of Trenton)
(Battle of) Saratoga
Valley Forge (Encampment)
(Battle of) Yorktown (British surrender at Yorktown)
 
There were 13 original states. Name five.
New Hampshire
Massachusetts
Rhode Island
Connecticut
New York
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Delaware
Maryland
Virginia
North Carolina
South Carolina
Georgia
 
Benjamin Franklin is famous for many things. Name one.
Founded the first free public libraries
First Postmaster General of the United States
Helped write the Declaration of Independence
Inventor
U.S. diplomat
 
George Washington is famous for many things. Name one. *
“Father of Our Country”
First president of the United States
General of the Continental Army
President of the Constitutional Convention
 
Thomas Jefferson is famous for many things. Name one.
Writer of the Declaration of Independence
Third president of the United States
Doubled the size of the United States (Louisiana Purchase)
First Secretary of State
Founded the University of Virginia
Writer of the Virginia Statute on Religious Freedom
 
James Madison is famous for many things. Name one.
“Father of the Constitution”
Fourth president of the United States
President during the War of 1812
One of the writers of the Federalist Papers
 
Alexander Hamilton is famous for many things. Name one.
First Secretary of the Treasury
One of the writers of the Federalist Papers
Helped establish the First Bank of the United States
Aide to General George Washington
Member of the Continental Congress
   
1800s
 
What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803?
Louisiana Territory
Louisiana
 
Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s.
War of 1812
Mexican-American War
Civil War
Spanish-American War
 
Name the U.S. war between the North and the South.
The Civil War
 
The Civil War had many important events. Name one.
(Battle of) Fort Sumter
Emancipation Proclamation
(Battle of) Vicksburg
(Battle of) Gettysburg
Sherman’s March
(Surrender at) Appomattox
(Battle of) Antietam/Sharpsburg
Lincoln was assassinated.
 
Abraham Lincoln is famous for many things. Name one. *
Freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation)
Saved (or preserved) the Union
Led the United States during the Civil War
16th president of the United States
Delivered the Gettysburg Address
 
What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?
Freed the slaves
Freed slaves in the Confederacy
Freed slaves in the Confederate states
Freed slaves in most Southern states
 
What U.S. war ended slavery?
The Civil War
 
When did all men get the right to vote?
After the Civil War
During Reconstruction
(With the) 15th Amendment
1870
 
Name one leader of the women’s rights movement in the 1800s.
Susan B. Anthony
Elizabeth Cady Stanton
Sojourner Truth
Harriet Tubman
Lucretia Mott
Lucy Stone
   
Recent American History
 
Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.
World War I
World War II
Korean War
Vietnam War
(Persian) Gulf War
 
Why did the United States enter World War I?
Because Germany attacked U.S. (civilian) ships
To support the Allied Powers (England, France, Italy, and Russia)
To oppose the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria)
 
When did all women get the right to vote?
1920
After World War I
(With the) 19th Amendment
 
What was the Great Depression?
Longest economic recession in modern history
 
When did the Great Depression start?
The Great Crash (1929)
Stock market crash of 1929
 
Who was president during the Great Depression and World War II?
(Franklin) Roosevelt
 
Why did the United States enter World War II?
(Bombing of) Pearl Harbor
Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor
To support the Allied Powers (England, France, and Russia)
To oppose the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan)
 
Dwight Eisenhower is famous for many things. Name one.
General during World War II
President at the end of (during) the Korean War
34th president of the United States
Signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 (Created the Interstate System)
 
Who was the United States’ main rival during the Cold War?
Soviet Union
USSR
Russia
 
During the Cold War, what was one main concern of the United States?
Communism
Nuclear war
 
Why did the United States enter the Korean War?
To stop the spread of communism
 
Why did the United States enter the Vietnam War?
To stop the spread of communism
 
What did the civil rights movement do?
Fought to end racial discrimination
 
Martin Luther King, Jr. is famous for many things. Name one. *
Fought for civil rights
Worked for equality for all Americans
Worked to ensure that people would “not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content
of their character”
 
Why did the United States enter the Persian Gulf War?
To force the Iraqi military from Kuwait
 
What major event happened on September 11, 2001 in the United States? *
Terrorists attacked the United States
Terrorists took over two planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York City
Terrorists took over a plane and crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia
Terrorists took over a plane originally aimed at Washington, D.C., and crashed in a field in Pennsylvania
 
Name one U.S. military conflict after the September 11, 2001 attacks.
(Global) War on Terror
War in Afghanistan
War in Iraq
 
Name one American Indian tribe in the United States.
Apache
Blackfeet
Cayuga
Cherokee
Cheyenne
Chippewa
Choctaw
Creek
Crow
Hopi
Huron
Inupiat
Lakota
Mohawk
Mohegan
Navajo
Oneida
Onondaga
Pueblo
Seminole
Seneca
Shawnee
Sioux
Teton
Tuscarora
   
SYMBOLS AND HOLIDAYS
 
What is the capital of the United States?
Washington, D.C.
 
Where is the Statue of Liberty?
New York (Harbor)
Liberty Island [Also acceptable are New Jersey, near New York City, and on the Hudson (River).]
 
Why does the flag have 13 stripes? *
(Because there were) 13 original colonies
(Because the stripes) represent the original colonies
 
Why does the flag have 50 stars?
(Because there is) one star for each state
(Because) each star represents a state
(Because there are) 50 states
 
What is the name of the national anthem?
The Star-Spangled Banner
 
The Nation’s first motto was “E Pluribus Unum.” What does that mean?
Out of many, one
We all become one
 
What is Independence Day?
A holiday to celebrate U.S. independence (from Britain)
The country’s birthday
 
Name three national U.S. holidays. *
New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Presidents Day (Washington’s Birthday)
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veterans Day
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day
 
What is Memorial Day?
A holiday to honor soldiers who died in military service
 
What is Veterans Day?
A holiday to honor people in the (U.S.) military
A holiday to honor people who have served (in the U.S. military)
 
Which of the following ancient civilizations established a republican form of government?
Roman
 
During the 6th century B.C.E., the ancient Athenians divided the powers of their government between two assemblies and guaranteed certain
political rights to all male citizens. How do these political reforms best illustrate how societies develop?
by limiting government authority
 
A certain country is characterized by the following traits:
power achieved through inheritance
The establishment and maintenance of these traits is based on which of the following principles?
Divine right of kings
 
Which modern democratic concept practiced in the United States is most like the democratic process of ancient Greece?
the referendum
 
What is the principal function of a written constitution?
outlining the structure and powers of a government
 
Which of the following objectives best describes the purpose of the system of checks and balances, as defined in the U.S. Constitution?
keeping any one of the three branches of government from becoming too powerful
 
Which modern process would be supported by the ancient Greeks?
electing governors
 
Laws against defamation, including libel and slander, property damage and breach of contract represent which legal concern underlying most Western nations?
civil law
 
Use the passage below, from an exchange between former president Nixon and a television interviewer, to answer the question that follows.
"Well, when the president does it, that means that it is not illegal"-Richard M. Nixon
Which constitutional principle does the statement from President Nixon contradict?
rule of law
 
Which form of government is based on popular sovereignty?
Republic
 
The U.S. Congress fulfilled which of the following purposes of government when it declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor?
providing for the common defense
 
Which circumstance would require a search warrant?
examining the contents of a hotel room
 
In the United States, which of the following is permitted to citizens by the right of freedom of assembly?
the right to demonstrate
 
A man is walking down a public street window shopping (gazing at store window displays).
A robbery is reposted in that same area. Police officers stop and search the man. He could contest this search on the grounds that it
was a violation of his rights under the
4th amendment
 
In the United States, how are conflicts between state laws and federal laws generally resolved?
The conflict must be resolved using the Supremacy Clause.
 
A suspect is accused of a crime in one state and flees to another state where they are apprehended. The state is very slow in returning the
suspect to the state of origin and keeps them imprisoned.
petition for a writ of habeas corpus
 
Which phrase best describes the power of impeachment?
the ability of the U.S. House to charge federal officers with a crime or violation
 
At the Constitutional Convention, there was a major debate between large states and small states about representation in the new Congress.  This debate was resolved by the Great Compromise. What was the result of this compromise?
Congress would have two houses, one in which state representation was based on population and one in which all states had equal representation.
 
Which of the following reflects the most important consequence of the Watergate break-in?
resignation of the president of the United States
 
Which legislation reflects federal efforts to regulate transportation?
Interstate Commerce Act
 
A state that permits citizens to vote directly on laws and policies is practicing a form of:
direct democracy
 
An individual's belief that ordinary citizens can affect what government does is:
political efficacy
 
The principle that authority of the government rests in the hands of the people is:
popular sovereignty
 
The "rule of law" is best described as:
citizens are governed by laws; no one is above the law
 
In the U.S., voters chose representatives from the state to represent them in the U.S. Congress. This is known as:
indirect democracy
 
Which of the following are reserved for U.S. citizens only?
voting, serving on a jury, and holding federal office
 
Which of the following best are the two dominant political parties in the U.S.
Democrats and Republicans
 
In general, the Republican party is ideologically
conservative
 
Who is responsible for registering voters in the state of Florida?
a county supervisor of elections
 
Who is the chief executive in a state?
the governor
 
Congress creates laws, but those laws can be vetoed by the president or overturned by the Supreme Court.
This is an example of a Constitutional principle known as:
Checks and Balances
 
Articles one, two, and three in the Constitution reflect which constitutional principle:
separation of powers
 
The concept of self-government can be found in:
the preamble beginning with "we the people"
 
Which of the following best describes the concept of 'rule of law':
No one is above the law, including government and elected officials.
 
Which of the following best describes federalism:
a dual system of sovereignty where both national and state governments have authority.
 
During the ratification process of the Constitution, two major camps emerged: the _______ who opposed ratification,
and ______ who supported its ratification.
Anti-Federalists, Federalists
 
The Anti-Federalists opposed the ratification of the Constitution because they were afraid that the new
national government would be too powerful and thus threaten individual liberties. They favored all of the following EXCEPT:
the indirect election of government officials
 
To appease some of the fears of the Anti-Federalists and to ensure the ratification of the Constitution,
the Federalists promised that they would:
add amendments specifically protecting individual liberties
 
The power of government to take private property for public use is called:
eminent domain
 
The president is elected by a majority of electoral votes. After an election a group of electors chosen by each state officially cast the electoral votes for their state to choose the President.
Electoral College
 
Introduced by Roger Sherman; set up a bicameral Congress - upper house called Senate with each state getting 2 votes & a lower house called the House of Representatives with each state's representation based on its population--satisfied both the large and small states
Great Compromise
 
is the breaking of the gov't into Federal and state levels, each having certain powers
Federalism
 
system of each branch of gov't having a power to check the power of the other to make sure no one branch becomes too powerful
Checks and Balances
 
headed by the President and carries out the laws; also includes the Vice President and the Cabinet members
Executive Branch
 
a statute in draft before it becomes law
Bill
 
the judge who presides over the supreme court
Chief Justice
 
The role of the president as the supreme commander of the armed forces of the United States.
Commander-in-Chief
 
highest ranking member of a state's executive branch
Governor
 
powers reserved for the states; examples: creating and maintaining an education system, creating local governments
Reserved powers
 
presidential power to stop a bill from becoming a law by rejecting it
Veto power
 
The order in which officials fill the office of president in case of a vacancy.
presidential succession
1. Vice President
2. Speaker of the House of Representatives
3. President of the Senate Pro Tempore
 
9 justices nominated by President, confirmed by Senate; highest court in the nation; hears only appeals; interprets Constitutional law
U.S. Supreme Court
 
A series of acts passed by the government in response to the Boston Tea Party. They caused outrage, as the colonists viewed the acts as a violation of their rights. This led to the creation of the First Continental Congress and the Revolutionary War.
Intolerable Acts/Coercive Acts
 
Demonstration (1773) by citizens of Boston who raided three British ships in Boston harbor and dumped hundreds of chests of tea into the harbor; organized as a protest against taxes on tea.
Boston Tea Party
 
Rights & responsibilities entitled to citizens belonging to a political state or country; only citizens can run for federal office (i.e. President, Congress)
Citizenship
 
The meeting of state delegates in 1787 to revise the Articles of Confederation which produced the new U.S. Constitution
Constitutional Convention
 
An electoral system with two dominant parties that compete in national elections. Our two major parties are the Republicans and the Democrats.
Two-Party System
 
A belief that one has an obligation to participate in civic and political affairs.
Civic Duty
 
Clause of the Constitution that says the Constitution is the highest law of the land. Article 6, Clause 2
Supremacy Clause
 
Powers shared by the state and federal government.
concurrent powers
 
powers specifically stated in Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution as being granted to Congress Ex: power to establish post offices, power to regulate commerce
delegated powers
 
Clause in Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution that gives Congress the right to make all laws "necessary and proper" to carry out powers not expressly stated but necessary; cited in the Supreme Court landmark case McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause)
 
The powers Congress has that are specifically stated in the Constitution
enumerated/expressed/delegated powers
 
The powers Congress has that are not specifically stated in the Constitution
implied powers
 
The branch of government that interprets the law; made up the U.S. Supreme Court and lower federal courts
Judicial Branch
 
The branch that makes the laws; This is the branch the founders gave the most powers to because it is made up of many representatives elected directly by the people.
Legislative Branch (Congress)
 
The power lies with the people
popular sovereignty
 
Officer of the Senate selected by the majority party to act as chair in the absence of the Vice President who is the President of the Senate
President pro tempore of the Senate
 
The lower legislative house of Congress; number of representatives from each state is based on population and each representative is elected by a district in their state; members serve 2 year terms
House of Representatives
 
The upper house of the United States Congress with 100 members-2 from each state; Senators serve 6 year terms and represent all of their state's citizens
Senate
 
Part of the first amendment explaining that you have the freedom to practice any religion of your choice
Free Exercise Clause
 
The type of government where power is derived from the people and the people elect representation
democracy
 
Document written by English Parliament in 1689, designed to prevent abuse of power by English monarchs; parts of the U.S. Bill of Rights have foundation in that document
English Bill of Rights
 
The rights people have by the virtue of being human beings; both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution address the government's role in protecting these rights
natural rights
 
No one is above the law; Everyone must follow the laws, regardless of their position of power. This was established by the Magna Carta in 1215.
Rule of law
 
The fair treatment through the normal judicial system
due process of law
 
The pamphlet that advocated for the colonies declaring independence from Britain; supported the need for a democratic government where the people had representation
Common Sense by Thomas Paine
 
The belief that people are free and equal by natural right, but will give up some freedom to give power to the government so that the government can protect their rights.
Social Contract Theory
 
Article VI of the Constitution, which makes the Constitution the supreme law of the land and states that states cannot pass laws that conflict with federal laws.
Supremacy Clause
 
Head of a city's government elected by the people who are citizens of that city
Mayor
 
movement in the United States beginning in the 1960s to establish civil rights
Civil Rights Movement
 
law requiring men to register for military service
Selective Service Act
 
war between Great Britain and its American colonies, by which the colonies won their independence
American Revolution
 
Compromise made when writing the Constitution to satisfy both free and slave states; said for every 5 slaves, 3 would count in a state's population for both representation and tax purposes
3/5 Compromise
 
A formal document charging a public official with misconduct in office
impeachment
 
the opening section of the Constitution; brief introductory statement of the fundamental purposes and guiding principles that the Constitution is meant to serve
Preamble to the Constitution
 
the leader of the majority party who serves as the presiding officer of the House of Representatives
Speaker of the House of Representatives
 
This document was written by Thomas Jefferson and adopted on July 4, 1776 establishing the 13 American colonies as independent states, free from rule by Great Britain. The preamble (first section) lists our unalienable rights: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Declaration of Independence
 
The idea that our government derives its power from the people because
we elect representatives to the legislative branch of government
consent of the governed
 
Commander & Chief of Army, Navy, State Militia?   
The President
 
Naturalization laws are enacted by?
The Congress
 
How are the seats in the House of Representatives apportioned? What is the number of House members?
The seats in the House of Representatives are apportioned among the states by population, as determined by the census conducted every ten years. 435 members.
 
Amendments can be proposed by?
Amendments to the Constitution can be proposed by a 2/3rds vote of both houses or by 2/3rds of the state legislatures. An amendment is ratified by approval of 3/4ths of the state legislatures or by convention in 3/4ths of the states.
 
Who can declare war?
Only Congress.
 
Who is President of the Senate and what is his/her role?
Vice President. Presides over the Senate. Can only vote if there is a tie. If V.P. isn’t in attendance a pro-tempura (or President Pro-tem) is used.
 
Who refused to send delegates to the Constitutional Convention?
Rhode Island
 
What is a writ of Habeas Corpus?
Legal document stating the right of a jailed person to be released if proper charges cannot be brought against him.
 
House of Representatives are limited to how many members? (Regardless of increase in population).
They have the power to impeach the president, propose finance bills, select their own speaker.
 
What are the requirements to be a US Representative?
25 years old, 7 years resident of U.S. and must live in the district and state in which elected.
 
Who was opposed to the Constitution?
Anti-Federalists. Supporters were the Federalists.
 
What is the process for a bill becoming a law?
Congress proposes bills. President must sign in 10 days or bill is returned to Congress to be passed by a 2/3rds vote in order to override veto. If not signed or returned in10 days, bill automatically becomes law. Pocket veto-- President does not sign, but Congress has adjourned before the 10 days.
 
What are the requirements to become a Senator and what sole power lies with the Senate?
30 yrs. old, 9 years as U.S. resident. President of Senate is the V.P.; votes only in a tie. The Senate has the sole power to convict an impeached president by a 2/3rds vote. (Chief Justice takes V.P.'s place in Senate during trial).
 
What is the definition of treason?
Levying war and or aiding and comforting the enemy. Requires: 2 witnesses to the act or a confession in court.
 
What are the requirements to be President?
35 years old, natural-born citizen and at least 14 years residency in U.S. President's oath: "…preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the U.S."
 
How are finance bills proposed and approved?
Must start in the House of Representatives then approved by Senate. President may sign the bill into law or veto.
 
How often are Senators and the House of Representatives elected?
Senators: 1/3rd of Senate elected every 2 yrs. (serve a 6 year term). House of Representatives: All members are elected every 2 years (they serve a 2 year term).
 
Describe some important facts about the Constitutional Convention.
Held in Philadelphia in 1787. First to sign was George Washington & William Johnson was the last. 12 states were represented.
 
Which president (s) were impeached?
Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton were both impeached by the House of Representatives. Johnson was tried by the Senate, but acquitted by 1 vote (a 2/3rds majority is required). Clinton was tried in the Senate and found not guilty of the charges brought against him (the vote on both counts falling short of the 2/3rds majority).
 
How are Amendments ratified?
a.) By 2/3 vote in both houses of Congress or
b) By a National Convention called by Congress at the request of 2/3rds of the states.
 
How are Amendments proposed?
a) By the legislators of 3/4ths of the states or
b) By conventions in 3/4ths of the states.
 
The first chief justice of the united states was:
John jay
 
Which phrase from a letter written by President Thomas Jefferson in 1802 reflects a freedom in the Bill of Rights?
“Building a wall of separation between Church & State”
 
Constitutions should consist only of general provisions:
The reason is, that they must necessarily be permanent, and
that they cannot calculate for the possible changes of things. . . .”
— Alexander Hamilton, 1788
 
Which provision of the United States Constitution best supports the idea expressed in this quotation?
elastic clause
 
The presence of which pair of geographic conditions discouraged the development of a plantation economy in the New England colonies?
rocky soil and short growing season
 
Use the passage below, from an exchange between former president Nixon and a television interviewer, to answer the question that follows.
“Well, when the president does it, that means that it is not illegal”–Richard M. Nixon
Source: The Washington Post, June 5, 1977
Which constitutional principle does the statement from President Nixon contradict?
rule of law
 
During the 6th century B.C.E., the ancient Athenians divided the powers of their government between two assemblies
and guaranteed certain political rights to all male citizens.
How do these political reforms best illustrate how societies develop?
by limiting government authority
 
One way in which the Declaration of Independence and the original United States Constitution are similar is that both promote the idea of
the consent of the governed
 
The main objection to the adoption of the United States Constitution was based primarily on the belief that
individual freedoms could be restricted by a strong central government.
 
In U.S. V. Nixon, what presidential action was declared unconstitutional?
Claiming executive privilege when refusing to cooperate with a criminal investigation.
 
Which form of government is based on popular sovereignty?
republic
 
What did the Declaration of Independence do?
Declared independence from Great Britain
 
Which of the following ancient civilizations established a republican form of government?
Roman
 
Judges of the supreme court must be nominated by:
The president
 
What was the main cause of the French and Indian War (1754–1763)?
disputed land claims in the Ohio River valley between the French and the British
 
The courts may not take a man’s life without:
Due process of law
 
Which modern democratic concept practiced in the United States is most like the democratic process of ancient Greece?
the referendum
 
How many supreme court justices are there, according to the constitution?
The constitution does not establish the number of supreme court justices.
 
The British government’s use of writs of assistance against American merchants is one reason the
Bill of Rights includes protection against
unreasonable search and seizure
 
Every thing that is right or reasonable pleads for separation. The blood of the slain, the
weeping voice of nature cries, ’TIS TIME TO PART. . . .”
— Thomas Paine, Common Sense In this quotation, Thomas Paine is trying to convince the colonists to
declare their independence from England.
 
A certain country is characterized by the following traits:
1. power achieved through inheritance
2. same ruling family for over a century
3. finite freedoms and rights
4. hierarchical social status
5. single established state religion
 
The establishment and maintenance of these traits is based on which of the following principles?
divine right of kings
 
What is an amendment?
A change or an addition to the Constitution
 
The United States Constitution grants the Senate the power to
approve treaties
 
The length of term for a U.S. Supreme court judge is:
Life
 
Laws against defamation, including libel and slander, property damage and breach of contract represent
which legal concern underlying most Western nations?
civil law
 
How many amendments does the Constitution have?
27
 
Which modern process would be supported by the ancient Greeks?
electing governors
 
The supreme court has the right to
Review decisions of the inferior courts
 
Which statement about the electoral college system is accurate?
A candidate can be elected president without the majority of the popular vote.
 
What is the principal function of a written constitution?
outlining the structure and powers of a government
 
All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; . . .”
— Article 1, Section 7, United States Constitution
give citizens more influence over taxation issues.
 
Which of the following objectives best describes the purpose of the system of checks and balances, as defined in the U.S. Constitution?
keeping any one of the three branches of government from becoming too powerful
 
The power of judicial review was established when
the Supreme Court issued its ruling in Marbury v. Madison (1803)
 
Use the scenario below to answer the question that follows.
A suspect is accused of a crime in one state and flees to another state where they are apprehended.
The state is very slow in returning the suspect to the state of origin and keeps them imprisoned.
Which of the following represents a suitable petition for the suspect in this situation, in regard to their constitutional rights?
petition for a writ of habeas corpus
 
One way that the British government carried out the policy of mercantilism was by
 requiring that most colonial trade occur within the British Empire
 
To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers,
and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof.”
— Article I, Section 8, United States Constitution
This clause was used by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton to justify
establishing the Bank of the United States
 
Why did colonists living under British rule protest British tax policies?
The colonists claimed that the tax policies violated their political rights.
 
As to government matters, it is not in the power of Britain to do this continent justice:
the business of it will soon be too weighty and intricate to be managed with any tolerable degree of convenience,
by a power so distant from us, and so very ignorant of us; for if they cannot conquer us, they cannot govern us.
To be always running three or four thousand miles with a tale or a petition, waiting four or five months for an answer,
which, when obtained, requires five or six more to explain it in, will in a few years be looked upon as folly and childishness.
There was a time when it was proper, and there is a proper time for it to cease.…
— Thomas Paine, Common Sense, 1776
What is the main argument Thomas Paine makes concerning the relationship between Great Britain and its American colonies?
America is too distant for Great Britain to govern effectively.
 
Most of the amendments to the United States Constitution have dealt with
guaranteeing civil and political rights
 
Which phrase best describes the power of impeachment?
the ability of the U.S. House to charge federal officers with a crime or violation.
 
The United States, together with the United Nations, exhausted every means at our disposal
to bring this crisis to a peaceful end. However, Saddam [Hussein] clearly felt that by stalling and threatening and
defying the United Nations, he could weaken the forces arrayed against him. . . .”
— President George H. W. Bush, address to the nation, January 16, 1991 President George H. W. Bush
used this statement to defend
taking military action to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi aggression.
 
Based on the United States Constitution, the census helps to determine the number of
electoral votes assigned to each state
 
In writing the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson was most directly influenced by the social contract theory of
John Locke
 
Which statement is a fact rather than an opinion?
The power of judicial review was established by a Supreme Court decision.
 
The Federal Reserve System was created in 1913 to
control the money supply
 
Who was the only supreme court chief justice to have been secretary of state?
John marshall
 
In the United States, how are conflicts between state laws and federal laws generally resolved?
The conflict must be resolved using the Supremacy Clause
 
Who was the first African American justice of the supreme court?
Thurgood marshall
 
The main purpose of the Federalist Papers was to
urge ratification of the Constitution
 
Which circumstance would require a search warrant?
examining the contents of a hotel room
 
What prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful?
Checks and balances
 
Which president tried to “Pack” the supreme court with his own appointees?
Franklin Roosevelt
 
An example of the unwritten constitution is the
formation of political parties
 
The goal of the War Powers Act of 1973 was to
limit the president’s power to use military force without congressional approval
 
For how many years is a United States Senator elected?
6
 
Which event most directly contributed to the growth of New York City as the nation’s leading trade center?
opening of the Erie Canal
 
The U.S. Congress fulfilled which of the following purposes of government when it declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor?
providing for the common defense
 
How many US Senators are there?
100
 
A fundamental principle of a republican form of government is that
legislation must be passed by the elected representatives of the people
 
The judicial branch of government can check the legislative branch of government by
declaring laws unconstitutional
 
Judges of the supreme court must be nominated by:
The president
 
The belief expressed in this statement was put into law by the
 addition of the first amendment to the United States Constitution
 
In the United States, which of the following is permitted to citizens by the right of freedom of assembly?
the right to demonstrate
 
What happens if there is a tie vote in a supreme court decision?
The lower court's ruling is automatically affirmed
 
In what instance does the supreme court have original jurisdiction?
When a state is party to a case
 
President George H. W. Bush used this statement to defend
taking military action to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi aggression
 
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
435
 
What are the qualifications needed to serve in the House of Representatives?
25 years old
Citizen of U.S. for 7 years
Legal resident of state that elects them
 
Terms of office for members of the House:
Elected every two years
90% are re-elected
Election is held in November on even number years
 
Census
Counts population, every ten years
 
Reapportionment
Population of state which determines the number of representatives their entitled
 
How many senators are in the United States Senate?
100
2 from each state
 
What are the qualifications to serve in the Senate?
30 years old
Citizen of U.S. for 9 years before election
Legal resident of state they represent
 
What are "at-large" elections?
All the voters of the state elect
 
Terms of office for members of Senate:
2 year terms
Most win re-election
Term begins January 3rd
Election on November
 
How many members are there in Congress?
535
100 Senators and 435 Representatives
 
What do we know about incumbents?
Members who have already been in office most likely always win re-election
 
Constituents
People in the districts they represent
 
Party Affiliation
Being associated with a certain party
 
Speaker of the House
Presiding officer of the house and is its most powerful leader
Appoints members of committees
Refers bills to committees
Leader of majority party
 
Caucus
Majority party chooses the house speaker at the start of each session of
Congress, and the entire house membership approves the choice of the speaker
 
Majority Leader
Speakers top assistant
Steer important bills through the house
Make sure chair persons finish work on important bills
 
Whips
Assistant floor leader
Watch how party members intend to vote on bills
Persuade to vote as party wishes
Make sure party members are present to vote
 
Bills
A proposed law
It's a bill until both houses of congress pass it and the president
signs it
 
House Calendar
List bills that are up for consideration
 
House Rules Committees
Help direct flow of major legislation
Decide whether a bill can be amended
 
Quorum
Minimum number of members who must be present to permit a legislative body to take official action
218 people for majority
 
Who is the president of the Senate?
Vice president
 
What powers does the president of the Senate have?
Presides over Senate, but no real power
 
President Pro Tempore
Presides if vice president isn't there
 
Minority Leader
Develops criticisms of majority party's bills
Tries to keep senators in the minority party working together
 
Filibuster
Stall legislative process and prevent a vote
 
Cloture
Procedure that allows each senator to speak for only 1 hour on a bill
under debate
 
Trustee
Vote on conscience
 
Delegate
Sent to represent others
 
Partisan
Strong supporter of a party
Vote to help their party
 
Politico
Formal term for politician
Combine elements of trustee, delegate, and partisan
 
Describe the purpose of Committees:
1) Allows congress to divide work among many smaller groups
2) Select bills that are to receive further consideration
3) Hold public hearings and investigations
 
Standing Committees
Each deal with a specific issue
Continue from one congress to the next
Permanent
 
Subcommittees
Specialize in subcategory of its standing committees responsibility
 
Select Committees
Study one specific issue and report their findings to the Senate or the
House
Temporary
 
Joint Committees
Made up of members from House and Senate, Temporary or permanent, Have members from both political parties
 
Conference Committees
Temporary, Made by both House and Senate, Talk about different versions of the same law
 
How are committees assigned?
In both the House and the Senate, the political partier assign members to the standing committees
 
Rules Committee
Determines under what rule other bills will come to the floor, Most powerful
 
Ways and Means
All tax codes go through this
 
Appropriations
Direct the flow of ALL governments money
 
Foreign Relations
Directly influence American foreign policy
 
Describe the changes of the Seniority System:
Bypass senior members up for chairs
No more secret ballot
 
Library of Congress
One of the largest libraries in the world
Contains books, journals, music, photos, etc.
Controls copy rights
Researches for Congress
 
Congressional Budget Office
Coordinate budget making work of Congress
Studies budget proposals of president
Researches proposed costs of new programs
Studies economic trends and how government actions could impact the economy
 
General Accounting Office
Nations watchdog over spending
Provide research for lawmakers over specific programs
 
Appropriations Bill
Proposed laws to authorize spending money
 
Interstate Commerce
Trade among the states
 
Heart of Atlanta Motel v. United States
In 1964 used its power to regulate interstate commerce to pass the
landmark Civil Rights Act
 
Senate impeachment process
2/3 majority vote of the parliament, then constitutional court decides whether the president is guilty, and if he is then he is removed from power
 
House of Representatives impeachment process
Power to remove any federal official
Accusation of misconduct in office
Simple majority of quorum
 
Subpoena
Legal order that a person appear or produce a requested document
 
Perjury
Lying under oath to Congress
 
Legislative Oversight
Review of how effective the executive branch carries out the laws passed
by congress
 
Legislative Veto
Closed by congress wrote provisions into some of the laws that allowed
it to review and carrie out actions of executive agencie
 
Presidential Veto
President can veto things that are passed by Congress
 
Line-Item Veto
Allows a veto of only certain lines in a bill
 
Simple Resolution
Covers matters that are only affecting one house
Does not have the force law
 
Joint Resolution
The bill is passed by both houses and if the president signs it, it gives for to be a law
Has the force of law
 
Concurrent Resolution
Both the House and the Senate are required to take part, but no law is needed
Does not have force of law
 
Rider
A provision other then the one covered in the bill
 
-Conference Committee:
If the houses disagree on a bill they have a conference and work out the
problems
 
-President: Can either sign the bill, not sign the bill, veto, or pocket
veto the bill
 
Pigeonholing
Holding a bill until it dies
 
Congressional options to a veto:
Possible to override a veto with 2/3 vote in each house
 
Describe the impact of lobbyists
They try to persuade congress to support their cause and bill
   
The Bill of Rights was added to the US Constitution primarily to:
provide the President with power in times of emergency
establish fair and impartial elections
protect individual liberties
guarantee voting privileges to minorities
 
Which guarantees freedom of the press, freedom of speech, and freedom of religion to individuals in the US?
the Treaty of Paris 1783
the Articles fo Confederation
the First Amendment to the US Constitution
the Fifth Amendment to the US Constitution
 
Which has been an important limitation on the power of eminent domain found in the Fifth Amendment?
The reciting of prayers in public schools has been prohibitied
There must be "clear and present danger" before it can be exercised
Individuals accused of commiting crimes are protected from abusive behavior by the police
Governments must provide "reasonable compensation" when taking a person's property
 
Which of the following words are part of the Declaration of Independence?
"They are endowed by their Creator with certain unalineable right, that among these are the right of live, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."
"All persons born or naturalized in the US are citizens of the US."
"No solider shall, in time of peace, be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner."
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof."
 
Which action would be protected by the First Amendment?
A reporter publishes an article critical of city officials
A man on trial refused to testify against himself
A woman asks to see a lawyer before answering questions from the police
A family refuses to permit soldiers to be housed in their home
 
In the US, illegally obtained evidence cannot be used in a court of law against someone. This rule is based on an individual's constitutional right to:
face accusers in open court
be protected agaisnt double jeopardy
a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury
protection against unreasonable searches and seizures
 
SUPPORTERS of RATIFICATION of the CONSTITUTION and of a strong central government.
Federalists
 
They opposed the ratification of the Constitution because it gave more power to the federal government and less to
the states, and because it did not ensure individual rights. The Anti-federalists were instrumental in obtaining passage of the
BILL of RIGHTS as a prerequisite to ratification of the Constitution in several states
Anti-Federalists
 
The New Jersey Plan and Virginia Plan differed mainly over what?
State representation in the legislative branch
 
Quote: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal. . . ."
Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776
 
Quote: "it is the great parent of science & of virtue: and that a nation will be great in both, always in proportion as it is free."
Thomas Jefferson to Joseph Willard, March 24, 1789
 
Quote: "our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost."
Thomas Jefferson to Dr. James Currie, January 28, 1786
 
Quote: "nothing can now be believed which is seen in a newspaper. truth itself becomes suspicious by being put into that polluted vehicle."
Thomas Jefferson to John Norvell, June 11, 1807
 
Quote: "I, however, place economy among the first and most important republican virtues, and public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared."
Thomas Jefferson to William Plumer, July 21, 1816
 
Quote: "bigotry is the disease of ignorance, of morbid minds; enthusiasm of the free and buoyant. education & free discussion are the antidotes of both."
Thomas Jefferson to John Adams, August 1, 1816
 
Quote: "What a stupendous, what an incomprehensible machine is man! Who can endure toil, famine, stripes, imprisonment & death itself in vindication of his own liberty, and the next moment . . . inflict on his fellow men a bondage, one hour of which is fraught with more misery than ages of that which he rose in rebellion to oppose."
Thomas Jefferson to Jean Nicholas Demeunier, January 24, 1786
 
Quote: "yet the hour of emancipation is advancing . . . this enterprise is for the young; for those who can follow it up, and bear it through to it's consummation. it shall have all my prayers, and these are the only weapons of an old man."
Thomas Jefferson to Edward Coles, August 25, 1814
 
Quote: "the two principles on which our conduct towards the Indians should be founded, are justice & fear. after the injuries we have done them, they cannot love us . . . ."
Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Hawkins, August 13, 1786
 
Quote: "The expedition of Messrs. Lewis & Clarke for exploring the river Missouri, & the best communication from that to the Pacific ocean, has had all the success which could have been expected."
Thomas Jefferson's Sixth Annual Message to Congress, December 2, 1806
 
Quote: "I agree with you that it is the duty of every good citizen to use all the opportunities, which occur to him, for preserving documents relating to the history of our country."
Thomas Jefferson to Hugh P. Taylor, October 4, 1823
 
Quote: "I had rather be shut up in a very modest cottage with my books, my family and a few old friends, dining on simple bacon, and letting the world roll on as it liked, than to occupy the most splendid post, which any human power can give."
Thomas Jefferson to Alexander Donald, February 7, 1788
 
Quote: "Whenever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights."
Thomas Jefferson to Richard Price, January 8, 1789
 
Quote: "I have often thought that nothing would do more extensive good at small expense than the establishment of a small circulating library in every county, to consist of a few well-chosen books, to be lent to the people of the country under regulations as would secure their safe return in due time."
Thomas Jefferson to John Wyche, May 19, 1809
 
Quote: "our particular principles of religion are a subject of accountability to our god alone. I enquire after no man's and trouble none with mine; nor is it given to us in this life to know whether yours or mine, our friend's or our foe's, are exactly the right."
Thomas Jefferson to Miles King, September 26, 1814
 
Quote: " . . . there is no act, however virtuous, for which ingenuity may not find some bad motive."
Thomas Jefferson to Edward Dowse, April 19, 1803
 
Quote: "When angry, count ten before you speak; if very angry, an hundred."
Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Jefferson Smith, February 21, 1825
 
Quote: "I cannot live without books."
Thomas Jefferson to John Adams, June 10, 1815
 
Which legislation reflects federal efforts to regulate transportation?
Interstate Commerce Act
 
Which legislation reflects federal efforts to regulate transportation?
Interstate Commerce Act
 
The Mayflower Compact includes a pledge to ensure that all citizens look out for the general good of the colony.
Based on this, what impact has the Mayflower Compact had on modern understanding of the purpose of government in the United States?
The government should provide equal protection under the law.
 
Why did colonists living under British rule protest British tax policies?
The colonists claimed that the tax policies violated their political rights.
 
Use the excerpt below, from the Thirteenth Amendment, to answer the question that follows. 
“Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted,
shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” Source: National Archives and Records Administration”.
Which of the following contains a clause that may have served as an inspiration for the above language?
Northwest Ordinances
 
During the 6th century B.C.E., the ancient Athenians divided the powers of their government between two assemblies and
guaranteed certain political rights to all male citizens. How do these political reforms best illustrate how societies develop?
by limiting government authority
 
In the United States, which of the following is permitted to citizens by the right of freedom of assembly?
the right to demonstrate.
 
Which modern process would be supported by the ancient Greeks?
electing governors
 
Which of the following reflects the most important consequence of the Watergate break-in?
resignation of the president of the United States
 
In the United States, how are conflicts between state laws and federal laws generally resolved?
The conflict must be resolved using the Supremacy Clause.
 
Which of the following ancient civilizations established a republican form of government?
Roman
 
Which person is considered to be the principal author of the U.S. Constitution?
James Madison
 
“In order to attract investment and business and reduce expenses, a state legislature proposes passing a law that removes
the need for certain federal regulatory features relating to office and factory environments”.
Which legislative action would most likely cause the U.S. Supreme Court to decide that this violated the Supremacy Clause?
Occupational Safety and Health Act
 
The U.S. Congress fulfilled which of the following purposes of government when it declared war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor?
providing for the common defense
 
At the Constitutional Convention, there was a major debate between large states and small states about representation in the new Congress.
This debate was resolved by the Great Compromise.
What was the result of this compromise?
Congress would have two houses, one in which state representation was based on population and one in which all states
had equal representation.
 
Which phrase best describes the power of impeachment?
the ability of the U.S. House to charge federal officers with a crime or violation
 
Which modern democratic concept practiced in the United States is most like the democratic process of ancient Greece?
the referendum
 
Use the passage below, taken from a presidential nomination speech, to answer the question that follows.
“What do the people of America want more than anything else? To my mind, they want two things: work, . . . and with work, a reasonable measure of security . . .”
Based on the passage, which government program would the speaker support?
New Deal
 
The Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, primarily functions to:
Protect individual liberties against government intrusion.
 
Which of the following is a power that the U.S. Constitution grants to Congress?
Power to declare war.
 
Which official is the top law enforcement official at the county level of government?
sheriff
 
Use the quotation to answer the question.
“The way to have good and safe government is not to trust it all to one, but to divide it among the many, distributing to
everyone exactly the functions in which he is competent.”
—Thomas Jefferson, letter to Joseph C. Cabell, 1816
How does this quote support the idea of different obligations for state and local governments?
Different levels of government can provide separate services more easily and efficiently.
 
Like the U.S. Constitution, the Florida Constitution establishes which of the following?
three branches of government
 
Why do some states prefer the Missouri Plan for choosing judges?
It combines appointment of judges with election of judges
 
Of the following, what may happen following a guilty verdict in a criminal case?
The defendant appeals the case to a higher court.
 
What stops one branch of government. from becoming too powerful?
Checks & balances.
 
Which U.S Supreme Court case held that a person accused of a crime must
be advised of their 5th & 6th amendment rights upon their arrest?
Miranda vs Arizona (1966)
 
Who does a U.S Senator represent?
The residents of a single state
The U.S Constitution requires that the President be elected by whom?
The electoral college
 
Which structure found in the U.S Constitution was included as a response to a concern expressed in the Declaration of Independence?
Separation of powers
Length of U.S President’s elected term?
4 years
 
Which phrase in the U.S Constitution addresses the power to seize property?
Eminent domain
 
Which phrase from a letter written by Sarah Grimké in 1837 is reflected in the 14th amendment?
“I ask no favors for my sex I surrender not our claim to equality”
 
Who is in charge of the executive branch?
The president
 
Which government officials are elected by the people?
Mayors
 
What are two natural rights identified in the Declaration of Independence?
Life and liberty
 
Why did many colonists fight the British during the American Revolution?
They opposed taxation without representation
 
Which phrase from a letter by Abigail Adams to her husband John Adams in 1776 is reflected in the 19th amendment?
“I desire you would remember the ladies and be more generous and favorable to them”
 
Which phrase from the English Bill of Rights (1689) is reflected in the U.S Constitution’s 3rd amendment?
“That keeping a standing army within the kingdom in time of peace is against the law”
 
Based on the US Constitution which part of the government was intended to hold the least power?
The judiciary
 
The colonists used a political cartoon with the caption “join or die” to support what?
Forming their own government
 
Which is a shared power in the federal system?
Collecting taxes
 
Who has the power to veto bills?
The president
 
Who signs proposed bills into federal laws?
The president
 
What is the length of a US Representative elected term?
2 years
 
How many US Senators represent each state?
Two
 
What is one qualification to serve as a member of the US House of Representatives?
Must be at least 25 years old
 
What is an example of a power reserved to the states?
Creating school systems
 
Why does article 1, section 7 of the US constitution require that tax bills be introduced in the house of representatives?
Because the original English colonists were taxed without their consent
 
What is an example of a democratic process?
The people elect a governor
 
Which of the following represents the principle of consent of the governed?
Individuals elect members of the House of Representatives
 
Which part of the government was created to reflect the colonists’ position that governments derive their
powers from the consent of the governed?
The legislature
 
What is one chamber of the US Congress?
Senate
 
Which two steps are required in order for someone to become chief justice of the US supreme court?
Nomination by the president and confirmation by the Senate
 
What is a core theme of the Federalist papers?
The proposed Constitution should be ratified
 
Which of the following represents the goal of the supremacy clause?
States may not pass laws that conflict with federal laws
 
First two paragraphs of the declaration of independence state what?
The preamble
 
Which statement from the English bill of rights is reflected in the US Constitution’s eighth amendment?
“That excessive bail ought not to be required nor cruel and unusual punishment inflicted”
 
What is an example of federalism?
The principle that the national and state government share power
 
Who is the commander-in-chief of the military?
President of the United States
 
What is the highest federal court in the United States?
The Supreme Court
 
Which point of view is reflected in the “common sense”?
Representatives should be elective
 
What is the purpose of the civil rights movement?
To secure equalities
 
What is one responsibility of only US citizens?
Serving on a jury
 
What did the US Constitution do?
Formed a unitary government
 
What is the minimum number of US House of Representatives that represent each state?
One
 
Which US supreme court case is correctly paired with the rights that pertain to the first amendment?
Citizens of the United States versus the federal election commission (2010)
 
Which right from the English bill of rights is reflected in the US Constitution’s first amendment?
“To petition the king”
 
What is the purpose of the 17th amendment?
(outlines senate representation for the states and that there will be direct election of US senators by US citizens)
To promote democratic participation
 
What is an example of judicial review?
The power of the Supreme Court to find laws unconstitutional
 
What phrase is included in the Declaration of Independence?
“All men are created equal”
 
Which of the following documents provided the rationale for the declaration of independence?
Common sense- a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775 advocating independence from
Great Britain to the people in the colonies.
 
Which of the following was established by a constitutional amendment?
The president may serve no more than two elected terms
 
What is an example of representation?
The US Congress passes a law
 
Which document was adopted by the newly independent United States to organize the national government
after declaring independence?
Articles of confederation
 
What is the “rule of law”?
No one is above the law
 
Which action is an example of petitioning the government?
Lobbying officials
 
How did the holding in the US Supreme Court case Miranda vs Arizona impact criminal defendants?
It established that defendants were protected against self-incrimination
 
How did the holding in the US Supreme Court case Gideon versus Wainwright impact criminal defendants?
It established that defendants had the right to counsel
 
Which right did the colonists consider “inalienable” in the Declaration of Independence?
Pursuit of happiness
 
Which scenario represents a violation of the equal protection clause?
A state law establishes a higher minimum wage for men then for women
 
How did the US constitution resolve the dispute between slave and free states over representation?
The 3/5 compromise
 
How did the supreme court case District of Columbia vs Heller impact state rights?
Reduce the ability of states to place restrictions on Second Amendment rights
 
What is the length of US senators elected term?
Six years
 
What is one power of the US Senate?
Ratify international treaties
 
What are the branches of the US federal government?
legislative
judicial
executive
 
Which of the following is a right reserved for US citizens only?
Running for federal office (ex.the president)
 
If both the US president and the US vice president are unable to serve, who acts as president?
The speaker of the house
 
Due process of law
Fair treatment in judicial proceedings
 
What is the purpose of the selective service system?
To draw for compulsory military service