FCLE Founding Documents and Landmark Supreme Court Cases 2

Question 1

What is the main argument of the Federalist Papers?

Accepted Answer

That a strong central government under the proposed Constitution was necessary and beneficial

Answer

That the Articles of Confederation were adequate for governing

Answer

That states should have complete sovereignty

Answer

That the Bill of Rights was unnecessary

Question 2

In Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court established which landmark principle?

Accepted Answer

Judicial review — the power of courts to invalidate unconstitutional laws

Answer

The right to counsel

Answer

Separation of church and state

Answer

The right to a jury trial in civil cases

Question 3

What was the central holding of Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)?

Accepted Answer

Racial segregation in public facilities was constitutional under the separate but equal doctrine

Answer

Racial segregation is unconstitutional

Answer

African Americans were entitled to full citizenship

Answer

Schools must be integrated immediately

Question 4

What fundamental principle does the Declaration of Independence assert about the source of government's power?

Accepted Answer

Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed

Answer

Governments derive their power from divine authority

Answer

Governments derive their power from military strength

Answer

Governments derive their power from economic prosperity

Question 5

What did the Supreme Court rule in Miranda v. Arizona (1966)?

Accepted Answer

Criminal suspects must be informed of their rights before custodial interrogation

Answer

Police can search a home without a warrant

Answer

Defendants have no right to an attorney during interrogation

Answer

Evidence obtained illegally is admissible in court

Question 6

In which founding document are the phrases 'We the People' and the establishment of the six goals of government found?

Accepted Answer

The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution

Answer

The Declaration of Independence

Answer

The Articles of Confederation

Answer

The Federalist Papers