Social Studies Flashcards

Which document established the first framework of government for the United States?

Answer: The Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution and framework of government for the United States, adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777 and ratified in 1781. It established a loose confederation of states with a weak central government before being replaced by the U.S. Constitution.

What was the primary purpose of the Lewis and Clark expedition?

Answer: To explore and map the Louisiana Territory

Commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson after the Louisiana Purchase, the primary purpose of the Lewis and Clark expedition was to explore and map the newly acquired territory. Their mission included documenting the geography, flora, fauna, and indigenous peoples, as well as seeking a practical water route across the western half of the continent.

What is the main function of the judicial branch of the U.S. government?

Answer: To interpret laws

The judicial branch of the U.S. government, which includes the Supreme Court and lower federal courts, has the main function of interpreting the laws. This involves reviewing laws to ensure their constitutionality and applying them to specific cases, thereby upholding justice and the rule of law.

Which event marked the beginning of the American Civil War?

Answer: The attack on Fort Sumter

The American Civil War officially began with the attack on Fort Sumter by Confederate forces on April 12, 1861. This act of aggression against a federal outpost in Charleston, South Carolina, prompted President Lincoln to call for troops, escalating the conflict into full-scale war.

Which economic system is characterized by private or corporate ownership of capital goods?

Answer: Capitalism

Capitalism is an economic system defined by private or corporate ownership of capital goods, such as factories, land, and resources. In this system, investment decisions are made by private actors, and prices and the production and distribution of goods are primarily determined by competition in a free market.