REVIEW 2025 STUDY QUESTIONS
AND ANSWERS
The Enlgightenment idea of the separation of powers was developed by - ANSWER-
Baron de Montesquieu
John Locke's theory that certain truths in society come from and are governed by
nature is known as the theory of - ANSWER-Natural Law
Describe John Locke's theory of social contract. - ANSWER-People gave for some of
their rights to government in order to have better lives.
This document guaranteed that not even the king or queen was above the law. -
ANSWER-Magna Carta
Explain the significance of the English Bill of Rights on the development of the U.S.
constitution. - ANSWER-Established thought that individual rights should be listed
and protected
What was the first document that established self-government by creating a direct
democracy in the colonies? - ANSWER-Mayflower Compact
This pamphlet was used to persuade members of the Second Continental Congress
and justified the ideals and reasons for independence from Great Britian. - ANSWER-
Common Sense
Give specific examples of colonial responses to English Policies. - ANSWER-Boston
Tea Party, boycott, protest, literature
What concerns of the colonists led to the writing of the Declaration of
Independence? - ANSWER-Taxation without respresentation, forced quartering
violation of BR
What were the main complaints/arguments against Britian in the Declaration of
Independence? - ANSWER-Colonists felt that England was not protecting their rights,
taxing witout representation
John Locke's theory of ___________ guaranteed that all individuals are entitled to
basic rights such as life, liberty, and property. - ANSWER-Natural Rights
Which document outlined the first form of government for the United States? Which
system of government did this document create? - ANSWER-Articles of
Confederation, a confederal system (no central government)
List some of the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. - ANSWER-
Central government was too weak, document was inflexible and could not be be
changed, no national currency, no federal revenue
, What is the purpose of the Preamble to the constitution? - ANSWER-It introduces the
goals and concepts outlined in the constitution + reinforces principle of government
What was the main argument the Federalists used to support the ratification of the
Constitution? - ANSWER-The need for a stronger government
List the arguments the Anti-Federalists used to against ratifying the Constitution. -
ANSWER-No bill of rights, central government too strong
A legal member of a country is a - ANSWER-Citizen
Name two ways a person can become a U.S. citizen - ANSWER-Birth (Natural Birth)
or naturalization
List the steps in the naturalization process. - ANSWER-Sign declaration of intent
apply for residency visa, citizenship, finger printed, interview with a USEIS, pass
citizenship test
What are the major differences between Democrats and Republicans? - ANSWER-
Government support of U.S. welfare
What is a plank? - ANSWER-A specific issue that is a part of a parties' platform.for
What is a platform? - ANSWER-A group that candidates campaings on or that a party
supports.
Give an example of media informing the public about government. - ANSWER-A
newspaper reports the details about a bill.
Give an example of how an individual can influence government. - ANSWER-Write a
letter expressing a concern to county commissioner.
Give an example on how interest groups can influence government. - ANSWER-An
interest group can endorse a candidate for election.
What is bias? - ANSWER-Showing preference towards toward a particular viewpoint.
What is symbolism? - ANSWER-The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
What is propaganda? - ANSWER-Ideas used to peoples' thinking or behavior.
What is the difference between direct democracy and representative democracy? -
ANSWER-Direct: Voting "Directly" for leaders/laws
Representative: Electing leaders to vote for you
Explain the major similarity between socialism and communism. - ANSWER-Both
socialism and communism are based on the principle that the goods and services
produced in an economy should be owned publicly, and controlled and planned by a
certified organization
A type of government in which the leadership is comprised of the few wealthy elite
is called a - ANSWER-Oligarchy