FCLE Flashcards
(36 cards)
Which ancient civilization established a republican form of government?
Roman
The Roman Republic was characterized by a system of elected officials and representative governance.
During the 6th century B.C.E., what did the ancient Athenians divide in their government?
Powers between two assemblies
This division helped to ensure broader political participation among male citizens.
The political reforms in ancient Athens best illustrate how societies develop by _______.
choosing government leaders
What traits characterize the certain country described?
- Power achieved through inheritance
- Same ruling family for over a century
- Finite freedoms and rights
- Hierarchical social status
- Single established state religion
These traits suggest a monarchy or oligarchy structure.
The establishment and maintenance of the described traits is based on which principle?
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
A written constitution serves as a foundational legal document that establishes the framework for government operations and the delineation of authority.
Which objective best describes the purpose of the system of checks and balances in the U.S. Constitution?
Keeping any one of the three branches of government from becoming too powerful
The system of checks and balances is designed to ensure that power is distributed and that no single branch can dominate the others.
Which modern process would be supported by the ancient Greeks?
Electing governors
Ancient Greeks are known for their contributions to democracy, including the practice of electing officials.
Laws against defamation, including libel and slander, represent which legal concern in most Western nations?
Civil law
Civil law deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, including matters like defamation and breach of contract.
Which constitutional principle does the statement ‘when the president does it, that means that it is not illegal’ contradict?
C. rule of law
The rule of law implies that no one is above the law, including the president.
Which form of government is based on popular sovereignty?
D. republic
In a republic, the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed.
What is the purpose of the Preamble to the United States Constitution?
To outline the goals of the Constitution
The Preamble establishes the foundational purposes such as forming a more perfect union and securing liberty.
Which statement best describes the relationship between governments and citizens according to the Preamble?
A. Governments are accountable to the citizens over whom they rule.
This reflects the idea that government derives its power from the consent of the governed.
Fill in the blank: The Preamble states, ‘We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect _______.’
Union
This phrase indicates the aim of the Constitution to create a unified nation.
Fill in the blank: The Preamble aims to ‘provide for the common _______.’
defence
This emphasizes the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens.
True or False: The Preamble of the U.S. Constitution guarantees that courts will elect officials to represent the people.
False
The Preamble does not mention the election of officials by courts; it emphasizes the role of the people.
According to the Preamble, what is secured for ‘ourselves and our Posterity’?
the Blessings of Liberty
This phrase reflects the intention to protect freedoms for current and future generations.
What purpose of government did the U.S. Congress fulfill by declaring war on Japan after the attack on Pearl Harbor?
C. providing for the common defense
This act was a response to a direct threat to national security.
Which circumstance would require a search warrant?
D. examining the contents of a hotel room
This scenario typically involves a reasonable expectation of privacy.
What right is permitted to citizens by the freedom of assembly?
A. the right to demonstrate
Demonstrations are a form of exercising free speech and assembly.
On what Constitutional grounds could a man contest a search after being stopped by police while window-shopping?
C. Fourth Amendment
The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
How are conflicts between state laws and federal laws generally resolved in the United States?
C. The conflict must be resolved using the Supremacy Clause
The Supremacy Clause establishes that federal law takes precedence over state law.
Which article of the U.S. Constitution grants the power to coin money, make treaties, and levy import duties?
Article 1
Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution outlines the legislative powers of Congress, including the authority to coin money, regulate commerce, and establish rules for naturalization.
