#1
Who is known as the 'Father of the Constitution' in the United States?
James Madison
ExplanationJames Madison is known as the 'Father of the Constitution' for his pivotal role in its drafting and promotion.
#2
Which document outlined the first form of government for the United States before the Constitution?
Articles of Confederation
ExplanationThe Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States, establishing a loose confederation of states.
#3
Which event led to the convening of the Constitutional Convention in 1787?
Shays' Rebellion
ExplanationShays' Rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, prompting the need for a new constitution.
#4
Who served as the first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court?
John Marshall
ExplanationJohn Marshall was appointed as the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and played a significant role in shaping American jurisprudence.
#5
Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson
ExplanationThomas Jefferson is credited as the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, drafting its key principles and grievances against British rule.
#6
What is the main purpose of the Bill of Rights?
To protect individual freedoms and rights
ExplanationThe Bill of Rights aims to safeguard individual liberties from government infringement.
#7
Which philosopher greatly influenced the ideas behind the concept of 'natural rights' that were incorporated into the Declaration of Independence?
John Locke
ExplanationJohn Locke's ideas on natural rights, including life, liberty, and property, heavily influenced the Declaration of Independence.
#8
Which of the following is NOT one of the branches of the United States government as outlined in the Constitution?
Military
ExplanationThe military is not listed as one of the branches of government in the U.S. Constitution, which delineates the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
#9
Who authored the pamphlet 'Common Sense,' which was instrumental in building support for American independence?
Thomas Paine
ExplanationThomas Paine's 'Common Sense' galvanized support for American independence by articulating compelling arguments for breaking away from British rule.
#10
What is the term for the power of the Supreme Court to declare a law unconstitutional?
Judicial review
ExplanationJudicial review refers to the authority of the Supreme Court to invalidate laws or governmental actions that conflict with the Constitution.
#11
What was the primary goal of the Federalist Papers?
To encourage ratification of the Constitution
ExplanationThe Federalist Papers were a series of essays written to advocate for the ratification of the Constitution and explain its principles.
#12
Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution grants citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States?
Fourteenth Amendment
ExplanationThe Fourteenth Amendment ensures birthright citizenship and equal protection under the law for all persons born or naturalized in the U.S.
#13
Who was the President of the Constitutional Convention in 1787?
George Washington
ExplanationGeorge Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention of 1787, lending his leadership and prestige to the proceedings.
#14
Who was the primary author of the Federalist Papers?
Alexander Hamilton
ExplanationAlexander Hamilton, along with James Madison and John Jay, authored the majority of the Federalist Papers, promoting the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
#15
Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to a trial by jury in civil cases?
Seventh Amendment
ExplanationThe Seventh Amendment ensures the right to a trial by jury in civil cases, preserving the right to a fair trial and due process.