Civics Flashcards
12 cards from real US practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 12 Civics flashcards as text
What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen?
Answer: give up loyalty to other countries
When becoming a naturalized United States citizen, one of the fundamental promises made is to renounce allegiance to any foreign state or sovereignty. This oath signifies a commitment to full loyalty and fidelity to the United States and its Constitution.
What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?
Answer: saved (or preserved) the Union
Abraham Lincoln's most significant achievement as president was leading the country through the Civil War and ultimately preserving the United States as a unified nation. His unwavering commitment to maintaining the Union prevented its dissolution during a period of profound national crisis.
Who is in charge of the executive branch?
Answer: the President
The President of the United States serves as the head of the executive branch of the federal government. In this role, the President is responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws passed by Congress, overseeing the vast federal bureaucracy, and acting as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
There were 13 original states. Name three.
Answer: Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina
The 13 original states were the British colonies that declared independence and formed the United States. These included Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island. Option D lists three of these original states, making it the correct choice.
If both the President and the Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President?
Answer: the Speaker of the House
The Presidential Succession Act of 1947 establishes the order of succession to the U.S. presidency. If both the President and Vice President are unable to serve, the Speaker of the House of Representatives is next in line. This ensures a clear and stable transfer of power in such an emergency.
How many amendments does the Constitution have?
Answer: twenty-seven (27)
The U.S. Constitution has been amended 27 times since its ratification. The first ten amendments are known as the Bill of Rights, guaranteeing fundamental freedoms. Subsequent amendments address various issues, from voting rights to presidential term limits, reflecting the nation's evolving needs.
Who is the Chief Justice of the United States?
Answer: John Roberts Jr.
John Roberts Jr. has served as the Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court since 2005. The Chief Justice is the highest-ranking judicial officer in the federal judiciary. This position is a lifetime appointment, and the individual leads the judicial branch of the U.S. government.
Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states?
Answer: To provide schooling and education
Under the U.S. federal system, powers are divided between the federal government and state governments. Providing schooling and education is a reserved power, meaning it is primarily the responsibility of the states. States also have powers like issuing driver's licenses and conducting elections, while the federal government handles printing money, declaring war, and making treaties.
What does the Constitution do?
Answer: all of these answers
The U.S. Constitution serves multiple crucial functions for the nation. It establishes the framework and defines the powers of the federal government, creating its three branches. Furthermore, it protects the fundamental rights and freedoms of American citizens, ensuring a system of checks and balances and individual liberties.
Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States.
Answer: Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is one of the two longest rivers in the United States, flowing approximately 2,340 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The other longest river is the Missouri River, which is a tributary of the Mississippi. These rivers have played a significant role in American history, transportation, and economy.
What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?
Answer: speech
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects several fundamental rights and freedoms. These include freedom of speech, religion, the press, assembly, and the right to petition the government. These protections are essential for a democratic society, allowing citizens to express themselves and participate in public discourse.
What is freedom of religion?
Answer: You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion.
Freedom of religion, guaranteed by the First Amendment, means that individuals have the right to believe in and practice any religion they choose, or to not practice any religion at all. The government cannot establish an official religion or prohibit the free exercise of religion. This principle ensures religious liberty and separation of church and state.