Social Studies & Government Flashcards

What is the supreme law of the United States?

Answer: The Constitution

The Constitution is the foundational legal document of the United States, establishing the framework for the federal government and defining the rights of its citizens. It is considered the supreme law because all other laws and government actions must conform to its principles, ensuring a consistent and stable legal system across the nation.

How many branches make up the U.S. federal government?

Answer: 3

The U.S. federal government is divided into three distinct branches: the Legislative (Congress), Executive (President), and Judicial (Supreme Court and lower federal courts). This separation of powers, along with a system of checks and balances, is designed to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful and to protect individual liberties.

What historical event is celebrated on July 4th in the U.S.?

Answer: The adoption of the Declaration of Independence

July 4th commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress in 1776, formally declaring the thirteen American colonies independent from Great Britain. This pivotal document articulated the philosophical basis for the new nation, emphasizing natural rights and the right to self-governance.

Which Maryland city served as the temporary U.S. capital from 1783-1784?

Answer: Annapolis

Annapolis served as the temporary capital of the United States from 1783 to 1784, following the Revolutionary War. During this period, the Continental Congress met there, and significant events such as George Washington's resignation as commander-in-chief and the ratification of the Treaty of Paris occurred.

What principle gives each branch of government authority over the others?

Answer: Checks & balances

Checks and balances is a fundamental principle of the U.S. government designed to prevent any one branch from accumulating too much power. It grants each branch specific powers to limit or oversee the actions of the other two, ensuring a balance of authority and promoting accountability within the system.

Which amendment guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition?

Answer: First Amendment

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is a cornerstone of American liberties, guaranteeing several fundamental rights. These include freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as the right to peacefully assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

What document established Maryland as a British colony in 1632?

Answer: The Charter of Maryland

The Charter of Maryland, granted by King Charles I to Cecil Calvert (Lord Baltimore) in 1632, officially established Maryland as a proprietary colony. This document outlined the colony's boundaries, granted extensive powers to the proprietor, and laid the legal foundation for its governance and settlement.

Which level of government is primarily responsible for education?

Answer: Local government

While federal and state governments provide funding and set some guidelines, local governments, through school districts and local boards, are primarily responsible for the day-to-day administration, funding, and curriculum decisions for public education. This decentralized approach allows for tailored educational systems that meet community needs.

What Maryland landmark is considered the birthplace of the national anthem?

Answer: Fort McHenry

Fort McHenry is renowned as the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner." During the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key witnessed the bombardment of the fort by the British in 1814 and, seeing the American flag still flying at dawn, was inspired to write the poem that became the anthem.