GED Social Studies 3

Question 1

What is the significance of the Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education (1954)?

Accepted Answer

It declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional

Answer

Brown v. Board of Education (1954) unanimously ruled that racial segregation in public schools violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, overturning Plessy v. Ferguson's 'separate but equal' doctrine.

Question 2

Under the U.S. Constitution, which body has the sole power to try an impeached federal official?

Accepted Answer

The Senate

Answer

The Constitution divides impeachment power: the House has the sole power to impeach (bring charges), while the Senate has the sole power to try impeachment cases and convict or acquit.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the 'checks and balances' system in the U.S. government?

Accepted Answer

To prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful

Answer

Checks and balances give each branch of government the ability to limit the powers of the other branches, preventing any single branch from accumulating excessive power — a safeguard against tyranny.

Question 4

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery?

Accepted Answer

13th Amendment

Answer

The 13th Amendment (ratified December 6, 1865) abolished slavery and involuntary servitude throughout the United States, except as punishment for crime.

Question 5

What is the main difference between a democracy and a republic?

Accepted Answer

In a pure democracy, citizens vote directly on laws; in a republic, elected representatives make laws on behalf of citizens

Answer

In a direct democracy, citizens vote directly on all laws and policies. In a republic (representative democracy), citizens elect representatives who make laws on their behalf.

GED Practice Test

GED Practice Test

GED Social Studies 3