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Civics128

Learn the 128 questions

Browse by category — every answer, explanation, and hint is right on the card.

Question 1
Not started

What is the form of government of the United States?

Official answer

Republic

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Republic
  • Constitution-based federal republic
  • Representative democracy

Explanation

The United States is a republic — a government where citizens elect representatives to make laws. It is also a constitution-based federal republic and a representative democracy.

💡 Memory hint

Think 'we elect people to represent us' — a republic, not a monarchy.

Question 2
65/20Not started

What is the supreme law of the land?

Official answer

(U.S.) Constitution

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (U.S.) Constitution
  • Constitution

Explanation

The U.S. Constitution is the highest law in the country. No other law or government action can go against it.

💡 Memory hint

'Supreme' = the top. The Constitution sits above all other U.S. law.

Question 3
Not started

Name one thing the U.S. Constitution does.

Official answer

Forms the government

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Forms the government
  • Defines powers of government
  • Defines the parts of government
  • Protects the rights of the people

Explanation

The Constitution sets up the government, defines its parts and powers, and protects the rights of the people.

💡 Memory hint

It builds the government and guards your rights.

Question 4
Not started

The U.S. Constitution starts with the words "We the People." What does "We the People" mean?

Official answer

Self-government

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Self-government
  • Popular sovereignty
  • Consent of the governed
  • People should govern themselves
  • (Example of) social contract

Explanation

'We the People' means the power of government comes from the people themselves — they consent to be governed and govern themselves.

💡 Memory hint

'We the People' = the people are in charge.

Question 5
Not started

How are changes made to the U.S. Constitution?

Official answer

Amendments

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Amendments
  • The amendment process

Explanation

Changes to the Constitution are called amendments, added through a formal amendment process.

💡 Memory hint

A change = an 'amendment.'

Question 6
Not started

What does the Bill of Rights protect?

Official answer

(The basic) rights of Americans

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (The basic) rights of Americans
  • (The basic) rights of people living in the United States

Explanation

The Bill of Rights — the first 10 amendments — protects the basic rights of people in the United States.

💡 Memory hint

Bill of Rights = the first 10 amendments protecting your rights.

Question 7
65/20Not started

How many amendments does the U.S. Constitution have?

Official answer

Twenty-seven (27)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Twenty-seven (27)
  • 27

Explanation

The Constitution has been amended 27 times since it was written.

💡 Memory hint

Twenty-seven (27) amendments.

Question 8
Not started

Why is the Declaration of Independence important?

Official answer

It says America is free from British control

All official accepted answers (English)

  • It says America is free from British control
  • It says all people are created equal
  • It identifies inherent rights
  • It identifies individual freedoms

Explanation

The Declaration of Independence announced that America was free from Britain and declared that all people are created equal with basic rights.

💡 Memory hint

It declared freedom from Britain and that 'all are created equal.'

Question 9
Not started

What founding document said the American colonies were free from Britain?

Official answer

Declaration of Independence

Explanation

The Declaration of Independence is the document that said the American colonies were free from Britain.

💡 Memory hint

'Declaring' independence = the Declaration of Independence.

Question 10
Not started

Name two important ideas from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

Official answer

Equality and liberty

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Equality
  • Liberty
  • Social contract
  • Natural rights
  • Limited government
  • Self-government

Explanation

Core founding ideas include equality, liberty, natural rights, limited government, and self-government.

💡 Memory hint

Think 'liberty and equality.'

Question 11
Not started

The words "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness" are in what founding document?

Official answer

Declaration of Independence

Explanation

These famous words come from the Declaration of Independence.

💡 Memory hint

Same document that declared independence.

Question 12
65/20Not started

What is the economic system of the United States?

Official answer

Capitalism

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Capitalism
  • Free market economy

Explanation

The U.S. has a capitalist, free-market economy where prices and production are mostly set by private businesses and consumers.

💡 Memory hint

Capitalism = free market.

Question 13
Not started

What is the rule of law?

Official answer

Everyone must follow the law

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Everyone must follow the law
  • Leaders must obey the law
  • Government must obey the law
  • No one is above the law

Explanation

Rule of law means everyone — including leaders and the government — must follow the law. No one is above it.

💡 Memory hint

No one is above the law — not even leaders.

Question 14
Not started

Many documents influenced the U.S. Constitution. Name one.

Official answer

Declaration of Independence

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Declaration of Independence
  • Articles of Confederation
  • Federalist Papers
  • Anti-Federalist Papers
  • Virginia Declaration of Rights
  • Fundamental Orders of Connecticut
  • Mayflower Compact
  • Iroquois Great Law of Peace

Explanation

Several earlier documents influenced the Constitution, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Federalist Papers.

💡 Memory hint

Easy ones: Declaration of Independence or the Articles of Confederation.

Question 15
Not started

There are three branches of government. Why?

Official answer

So one part does not become too powerful

All official accepted answers (English)

  • So one part does not become too powerful
  • Checks and balances
  • Separation of powers

Explanation

Power is split into three branches so no single branch becomes too powerful — this is 'checks and balances' / 'separation of powers.'

💡 Memory hint

Three branches so no one branch gets too strong.

Question 16
Not started

Name the three branches of government.

Official answer

Legislative, executive, and judicial

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Legislative, executive, and judicial
  • Congress, president, and the courts

Explanation

The three branches are legislative (Congress), executive (President), and judicial (the courts).

💡 Memory hint

Congress, President, Courts = Legislative, Executive, Judicial.

Question 17
Not started

The President of the United States is in charge of which branch of government?

Official answer

Executive branch

Explanation

The President leads the executive branch, which carries out and enforces the laws.

💡 Memory hint

President = Executive (he executes / enforces laws).

Question 18
Not started

What part of the federal government writes laws?

Official answer

(U.S.) Congress

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (U.S.) Congress
  • (U.S. or national) legislature
  • Legislative branch

Explanation

Congress — the legislative branch — writes the nation's laws.

💡 Memory hint

Legislature = the law-makers = Congress.

Question 19
Not started

What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?

Official answer

Senate and House (of Representatives)

Explanation

Congress has two parts (it is 'bicameral'): the Senate and the House of Representatives.

💡 Memory hint

Senate + House = Congress.

Question 20
65/20Not started

Name one power of the U.S. Congress.

Official answer

Writes laws

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Writes laws
  • Declares war
  • Makes the federal budget

Explanation

Congress writes laws, can declare war, and makes the federal budget.

💡 Memory hint

Congress makes laws and the budget, and can declare war.

Question 21
Not started

How many U.S. senators are there?

Official answer

One hundred (100)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • One hundred (100)
  • 100

Explanation

There are 100 U.S. senators — two from each of the 50 states.

💡 Memory hint

2 per state × 50 states = 100.

Question 22
Not started

How long is a term for a U.S. senator?

Official answer

Six (6) years

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Six (6) years
  • 6 years

Explanation

A U.S. senator serves a six-year term.

💡 Memory hint

Senators: Six years (S and Six).

Question 23
Not started

Who is one of your state's U.S. senators now?

Official answer

Answers will vary by state

This answer depends on where you live.

This answer depends on your state. You need to name one current U.S. Senator from your state.

How to find your answer

Find my senators on Senate.gov

Official U.S. government website — opens in a new tab.

Current officials can change. Confirm this answer before your interview.

Saved only in this browser.

Explanation

Each state elects two U.S. senators. Your answer depends on your state. (Residents of Washington, D.C. and U.S. territories have no U.S. senators.)

💡 Memory hint

Look up your state's two senators.

Question 24
Not started

How many voting members are in the House of Representatives?

Official answer

Four hundred thirty-five (435)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Four hundred thirty-five (435)
  • 435

Explanation

The House of Representatives has 435 voting members.

💡 Memory hint

House = 435 voting members.

Question 25
Not started

How long is a term for a member of the House of Representatives?

Official answer

Two (2) years

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Two (2) years
  • 2 years

Explanation

A member of the House serves a two-year term.

💡 Memory hint

House members run often — every 2 years.

Question 26
Not started

Why do U.S. representatives serve shorter terms than U.S. senators?

Official answer

To more closely follow public opinion

Explanation

Short two-year terms keep representatives closely tied to what the public wants.

💡 Memory hint

Short terms = stay close to the people's opinion.

Question 27
Not started

How many senators does each state have?

Official answer

Two (2)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Two (2)
  • 2

Explanation

Every state has exactly two senators, regardless of its size.

💡 Memory hint

Two per state — always.

Question 28
Not started

Why does each state have two senators?

Official answer

Equal representation (for small states)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Equal representation (for small states)
  • The Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)

Explanation

Two senators per state gives every state equal representation — this came from the Great (Connecticut) Compromise.

💡 Memory hint

Equal voice for every state.

Question 29
Not started

Name your U.S. representative.

Official answer

Answers will vary by congressional district

This answer depends on where you live.

This answer depends on your congressional district. Enter your ZIP code in the official House.gov lookup to find your current U.S. Representative.

How to find your answer

Find my representative on House.gov

Official U.S. government website — opens in a new tab.

Current officials can change. Confirm this answer before your interview.

Saved only in this browser.

Explanation

Your U.S. representative depends on your congressional district. (Territories and D.C. may have a non-voting delegate.)

💡 Memory hint

Look up your district's representative at house.gov.

Question 30
65/20Not started

What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now?

Official answer

Mike Johnson

Current as of May 2026. The Speaker can change with a new Congress; confirm at uscis.gov before your interview.

Explanation

The Speaker leads the House of Representatives. This office can change, so verify the current Speaker before your interview.

💡 Memory hint

Speaker leads the House — confirm who it is now.

Question 31
Not started

Who does a U.S. senator represent?

Official answer

Citizens of their state

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Citizens of their state
  • People of their state

Explanation

A senator represents all the people of their state.

💡 Memory hint

Senator = whole state.

Question 32
Not started

Who elects U.S. senators?

Official answer

Citizens from their state

Explanation

Voters (citizens) in each state elect their senators.

💡 Memory hint

The state's voters elect senators.

Question 33
Not started

Who does a member of the House of Representatives represent?

Official answer

Citizens in their (congressional) district

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Citizens in their (congressional) district
  • Citizens in their district
  • People from their (congressional) district
  • People in their district

Explanation

A representative represents the people in their congressional district.

💡 Memory hint

Representative = one district.

Question 34
Not started

Who elects members of the House of Representatives?

Official answer

Citizens from their (congressional) district

Explanation

Voters in each congressional district elect their representative.

💡 Memory hint

The district's voters.

Question 35
Not started

Some states have more representatives than other states. Why?

Official answer

(Because of) the state's population

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Because of) the state's population
  • (Because) they have more people
  • (Because) some states have more people

Explanation

States with more people get more representatives — House seats are based on population.

💡 Memory hint

More people = more representatives.

Question 36
65/20Not started

The President of the United States is elected for how many years?

Official answer

Four (4) years

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Four (4) years
  • 4 years

Explanation

The President is elected to a four-year term.

💡 Memory hint

President: Four (4) years.

Question 37
Not started

The President of the United States can serve only two terms. Why?

Official answer

(Because of) the 22nd Amendment

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Because of) the 22nd Amendment
  • To keep the president from becoming too powerful

Explanation

The 22nd Amendment limits the President to two terms so no one holds too much power for too long.

💡 Memory hint

22nd Amendment = two-term limit.

Question 38
65/20Not started

What is the name of the President of the United States now?

Official answer

Donald J. Trump — Donald Trump

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Donald J. Trump
  • Donald Trump

Current as of May 2026. Confirm the current President at uscis.gov before your interview.

Explanation

The President leads the executive branch. This changes with elections, so verify the current President before your interview.

💡 Memory hint

Confirm the current President.

Question 39
65/20Not started

What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now?

Official answer

JD Vance — J.D. Vance

All official accepted answers (English)

  • JD Vance
  • J.D. Vance

Current as of May 2026. Confirm the current Vice President at uscis.gov before your interview.

Explanation

The Vice President is next in line to the presidency. Verify the current Vice President before your interview.

💡 Memory hint

Confirm the current Vice President.

Question 40
Not started

If the president can no longer serve, who becomes president?

Official answer

The Vice President (of the United States)

Explanation

If the President can no longer serve, the Vice President becomes President.

💡 Memory hint

VP is next in line.

Question 41
Not started

Name one power of the president.

Official answer

Signs bills into law

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Signs bills into law
  • Vetoes bills
  • Enforces laws
  • Commander in Chief (of the military)
  • Chief diplomat
  • Appoints federal judges

Explanation

The President signs or vetoes bills, enforces laws, leads the military as Commander in Chief, and appoints federal judges.

💡 Memory hint

President signs or vetoes bills.

Question 42
Not started

Who is Commander in Chief of the U.S. military?

Official answer

The President (of the United States)

Explanation

The President is Commander in Chief of the U.S. military.

💡 Memory hint

President commands the military.

Question 43
Not started

Who signs bills to become laws?

Official answer

The President (of the United States)

Explanation

The President signs bills to make them law.

💡 Memory hint

President signs bills into law.

Question 44
65/20Not started

Who vetoes bills?

Official answer

The President (of the United States)

Explanation

The President can veto (reject) bills passed by Congress.

💡 Memory hint

President vetoes bills.

Question 45
Not started

Who appoints federal judges?

Official answer

The President (of the United States)

Explanation

The President appoints federal judges (and the Senate confirms them).

💡 Memory hint

President appoints judges.

Question 46
Not started

The executive branch has many parts. Name one.

Official answer

President (of the United States)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • President (of the United States)
  • Cabinet
  • Federal departments and agencies

Explanation

The executive branch includes the President, the Cabinet, and federal departments and agencies.

💡 Memory hint

President, Cabinet, agencies.

Question 47
Not started

What does the President's Cabinet do?

Official answer

Advises the President (of the United States)

Explanation

The Cabinet advises the President.

💡 Memory hint

Cabinet = advisors to the President.

Question 48
Not started

What are two Cabinet-level positions?

Official answer

Secretary of State and Attorney General

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Attorney General
  • Secretary of Agriculture
  • Secretary of Commerce
  • Secretary of Education
  • Secretary of Energy
  • Secretary of Health and Human Services
  • Secretary of Homeland Security
  • Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
  • Secretary of the Interior
  • Secretary of Labor
  • Secretary of State
  • Secretary of Transportation
  • Secretary of the Treasury
  • Secretary of Veterans Affairs
  • Secretary of War (Defense)
  • Vice-President
  • Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
  • Administrator of the Small Business Administration
  • Director of the Central Intelligence Agency
  • Director of the Office of Management and Budget
  • Director of National Intelligence
  • United States Trade Representative

Explanation

Cabinet-level positions include the Secretary of State, Secretary of War (Defense), Attorney General, and many others.

💡 Memory hint

Easy pair: Secretary of State and Attorney General.

Question 49
Not started

Why is the Electoral College important?

Official answer

It decides who is elected president

All official accepted answers (English)

  • It decides who is elected president
  • It provides a compromise between the popular election of the president and congressional selection

Explanation

The Electoral College is the system that formally decides who becomes President.

💡 Memory hint

Electoral College picks the President.

Question 50
Not started

What is one part of the judicial branch?

Official answer

Supreme Court

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Supreme Court
  • Federal Courts

Explanation

The judicial branch includes the Supreme Court and the federal courts.

💡 Memory hint

Supreme Court is part of the judiciary.

Question 51
Not started

What does the judicial branch do?

Official answer

Reviews laws

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Reviews laws
  • Explains laws
  • Resolves disputes (disagreements) about the law
  • Decides if a law goes against the (U.S.) Constitution

Explanation

The judicial branch interprets laws, settles legal disputes, and decides if laws follow the Constitution.

💡 Memory hint

Courts review and explain laws.

Question 52
65/20Not started

What is the highest court in the United States?

Official answer

Supreme Court

Explanation

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States.

💡 Memory hint

Highest court = Supreme Court.

Question 53
Not started

How many seats are on the Supreme Court?

Official answer

Nine (9)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Nine (9)
  • 9

Explanation

There are nine seats on the Supreme Court.

💡 Memory hint

Nine (9) justices.

Question 54
Not started

How many Supreme Court justices are usually needed to decide a case?

Official answer

Five (5)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Five (5)
  • 5

Explanation

A majority of five justices is usually needed to decide a case.

💡 Memory hint

Five (5) = a majority of nine.

Question 55
Not started

How long do Supreme Court justices serve?

Official answer

(For) life

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (For) life
  • Lifetime appointment
  • (Until) retirement

Explanation

Supreme Court justices serve for life (until they retire, die, or are removed).

💡 Memory hint

Justices serve for life.

Question 56
Not started

Supreme Court justices serve for life. Why?

Official answer

To be independent (of politics)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • To be independent (of politics)
  • To limit outside (political) influence

Explanation

Lifetime service lets justices make decisions independently, free from political pressure.

💡 Memory hint

Life term = independence from politics.

Question 57
Not started

Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now?

Official answer

John G. Roberts, Jr. — John Roberts

All official accepted answers (English)

  • John G. Roberts, Jr.
  • John Roberts

Current as of May 2026 (Chief Justice since 2005). Confirm at uscis.gov before your interview.

Explanation

The Chief Justice leads the Supreme Court. Verify who currently holds the office before your interview.

💡 Memory hint

Confirm the current Chief Justice.

Question 58
Not started

Name one power that is only for the federal government.

Official answer

Print paper money

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Print paper money
  • Mint coins
  • Declare war
  • Create an army
  • Make treaties
  • Set foreign policy

Explanation

Only the federal government can print money, declare war, make treaties, and set foreign policy.

💡 Memory hint

Federal-only: print money, declare war, treaties.

Question 59
Not started

Name one power that is only for the states.

Official answer

Provide schooling and education

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Provide schooling and education
  • Provide protection (police)
  • Provide safety (fire departments)
  • Give a driver's license
  • Approve zoning and land use

Explanation

States handle things like schools, police, fire protection, driver's licenses, and local zoning.

💡 Memory hint

States: schools, police, driver's licenses.

Question 60
Not started

What is the purpose of the 10th Amendment?

Official answer

(It states that the) powers not given to the federal government belong to the states or to the people

Explanation

The 10th Amendment says any power not given to the federal government belongs to the states or the people.

💡 Memory hint

10th = leftover powers go to states / people.

Question 61
65/20Not started

Who is the governor of your state now?

Official answer

Answers will vary by state

This answer depends on where you live.

This answer depends on your state. You need to name the current governor of the state where you live.

How to find your answer

Find my governor on USAGov

Official U.S. government website — opens in a new tab.

Current officials can change. Confirm this answer before your interview.

Saved only in this browser.

Explanation

Your governor depends on your state. (Washington, D.C. has a mayor, not a governor.)

💡 Memory hint

Look up your state's governor.

Question 62
Not started

What is the capital of your state?

Official answer

Answers will vary by state

This answer depends on where you live.

This answer depends on your state. Use your state's official government information to confirm its capital.

How to find your answer

Find my state's official website

Official U.S. government website — opens in a new tab.

Confirm this answer before your interview.

Saved only in this browser.

Explanation

Your state capital depends on your state. (D.C. residents should answer that D.C. is not a state.)

💡 Memory hint

Look up your state's capital.

Question 63
Not started

There are four amendments to the U.S. Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them.

Official answer

Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Citizens eighteen (18) and older (can vote)
  • You don't have to pay (a poll tax) to vote
  • Any citizen can vote (Women and men can vote)
  • A male citizen of any race (can vote)

Explanation

Several amendments expanded voting: citizens 18+ can vote, no poll tax is required, and the vote cannot be denied based on race or sex.

💡 Memory hint

Voting amendments: 15th, 19th, 24th, 26th.

Question 64
Not started

Who can vote in federal elections, run for federal office, and serve on a jury in the United States?

Official answer

Citizens

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Citizens
  • Citizens of the United States
  • U.S. citizens

Explanation

Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections, run for federal office, and serve on a jury.

💡 Memory hint

These three are citizens-only.

Question 65
Not started

What are three rights of everyone living in the United States?

Official answer

Freedom of speech, religion, and assembly

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Freedom of expression
  • Freedom of speech
  • Freedom of assembly
  • Freedom to petition the government
  • Freedom of religion
  • The right to bear arms

Explanation

Everyone in the U.S. has rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, and the right to petition the government.

💡 Memory hint

Speech, religion, assembly — First Amendment freedoms.

Question 66
65/20Not started

What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?

Official answer

The United States

All official accepted answers (English)

  • The United States
  • The flag

Explanation

In the Pledge of Allegiance we show loyalty to the United States and its flag.

💡 Memory hint

Pledge = loyalty to the U.S. and the flag.

Question 67
Not started

Name two promises that new citizens make in the Oath of Allegiance.

Official answer

Defend the Constitution and obey U.S. laws

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Give up loyalty to other countries
  • Defend the (U.S.) Constitution
  • Obey the laws of the United States
  • Serve in the military (if needed)
  • Serve (help, do important work for) the nation (if needed)
  • Be loyal to the United States

Explanation

New citizens promise to give up loyalty to other countries, defend the Constitution and laws, and be loyal to the United States.

💡 Memory hint

Give up other loyalties; defend the Constitution.

Question 68
Not started

How can people become United States citizens?

Official answer

Be born in the United States or naturalize

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Be born in the United States, under the conditions set by the 14th Amendment
  • Naturalize
  • Derive citizenship (under conditions set by Congress)

Explanation

People become citizens by birth in the U.S. (under the 14th Amendment), by naturalizing, or by deriving citizenship through their parents.

💡 Memory hint

Born here, naturalize, or derive from parents.

Question 69
Not started

What are two examples of civic participation in the United States?

Official answer

Vote and contact elected officials

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Vote
  • Run for office
  • Join a political party
  • Help with a campaign
  • Join a civic group
  • Join a community group
  • Give an elected official your opinion (on an issue)
  • Contact elected officials
  • Support or oppose an issue or policy
  • Write to a newspaper

Explanation

Civic participation includes voting, joining a campaign or party, contacting officials, and speaking out on issues.

💡 Memory hint

Vote and contact your officials.

Question 70
Not started

What is one way Americans can serve their country?

Official answer

Vote

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Vote
  • Pay taxes
  • Obey the law
  • Serve in the military
  • Run for office
  • Work for local, state, or federal government

Explanation

Americans can serve by voting, paying taxes, obeying laws, or serving in the military.

💡 Memory hint

Vote, pay taxes, obey the law.

Question 71
Not started

Why is it important to pay federal taxes?

Official answer

Required by law

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Required by law
  • All people pay to fund the federal government
  • Required by the (U.S.) Constitution (16th Amendment)
  • Civic duty

Explanation

Paying federal taxes is required by law (the 16th Amendment) and funds the federal government.

💡 Memory hint

Taxes are required by law and fund the government.

Question 72
Not started

It is important for all men age 18 through 25 to register for the Selective Service. Name one reason why.

Official answer

Required by law

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Required by law
  • Civic duty
  • Makes the draft fair, if needed

Explanation

Men 18–25 must register for Selective Service; it is required by law and keeps a possible draft fair.

💡 Memory hint

Required by law; keeps the draft fair.

Question 73
Not started

The colonists came to America for many reasons. Name one.

Official answer

Freedom

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Freedom
  • Political liberty
  • Religious freedom
  • Economic opportunity
  • Escape persecution

Explanation

Colonists came to America seeking freedom — including religious freedom, political liberty, and economic opportunity.

💡 Memory hint

Freedom: religious, political, economic.

Question 74
65/20Not started

Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?

Official answer

American Indians

All official accepted answers (English)

  • American Indians
  • Native Americans

Explanation

American Indians (Native Americans) lived in America before Europeans arrived.

💡 Memory hint

Native Americans / American Indians.

Question 75
Not started

What group of people was taken and sold as slaves?

Official answer

Africans

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Africans
  • People from Africa

Explanation

Africans were taken from Africa and sold into slavery in America.

💡 Memory hint

Africans were enslaved.

Question 76
Not started

What war did the Americans fight to win independence from Britain?

Official answer

American Revolution

All official accepted answers (English)

  • American Revolution
  • The (American) Revolutionary War
  • War for (American) Independence

Explanation

Americans fought the American Revolution (Revolutionary War) to win independence from Britain.

💡 Memory hint

The American Revolution.

Question 77
Not started

Name one reason why the Americans declared independence from Britain.

Official answer

Taxation without representation

All official accepted answers (English)

  • High taxes
  • Taxation without representation
  • British soldiers stayed in Americans' houses (boarding, quartering)
  • They did not have self-government
  • Boston Massacre
  • Boston Tea Party (Tea Act)
  • Stamp Act
  • Sugar Act
  • Townshend Acts
  • Intolerable (Coercive) Acts

Explanation

Reasons include high taxes, taxation without representation, and a lack of self-government.

💡 Memory hint

'Taxation without representation.'

Question 78
65/20Not started

Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Official answer

(Thomas) Jefferson

Explanation

Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence.

💡 Memory hint

Jefferson wrote it.

Question 79
Not started

When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?

Official answer

July 4, 1776

Explanation

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776.

💡 Memory hint

July 4, 1776 — Independence Day.

Question 80
Not started

The American Revolution had many important events. Name one.

Official answer

(Battle of) Yorktown

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Battle of) Bunker Hill
  • Declaration of Independence
  • Washington Crossing the Delaware (Battle of Trenton)
  • (Battle of) Saratoga
  • Valley Forge (Encampment)
  • (Battle of) Yorktown (British surrender at Yorktown)

Explanation

Key events include the Battles of Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, and Washington crossing the Delaware.

💡 Memory hint

Yorktown — the final big American victory.

Question 81
Not started

There were 13 original states. Name five.

Official answer

Virginia, New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Georgia

All official accepted answers (English)

  • New Hampshire
  • Massachusetts
  • Rhode Island
  • Connecticut
  • New York
  • New Jersey
  • Pennsylvania
  • Delaware
  • Maryland
  • Virginia
  • North Carolina
  • South Carolina
  • Georgia

Explanation

The 13 original states ran along the Atlantic coast — for example Virginia, New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

💡 Memory hint

Coastal colonies: Virginia, New York, Massachusetts…

Question 82
Not started

What founding document was written in 1787?

Official answer

(U.S.) Constitution

Explanation

The U.S. Constitution was written in 1787.

💡 Memory hint

1787 = the Constitution.

Question 83
Not started

The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers.

Official answer

(James) Madison

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (James) Madison
  • (Alexander) Hamilton
  • (John) Jay
  • Publius

Explanation

The Federalist Papers were written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay (under the pen name 'Publius').

💡 Memory hint

Hamilton, Madison, Jay.

Question 84
Not started

Why were the Federalist Papers important?

Official answer

They helped people understand the (U.S.) Constitution

All official accepted answers (English)

  • They helped people understand the (U.S.) Constitution
  • They supported passing the (U.S.) Constitution

Explanation

The Federalist Papers explained the Constitution and built support for ratifying it.

💡 Memory hint

They argued for the Constitution.

Question 85
Not started

Benjamin Franklin is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

U.S. diplomat

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Founded the first free public libraries
  • First Postmaster General of the United States
  • Helped write the Declaration of Independence
  • Inventor
  • U.S. diplomat

Explanation

Benjamin Franklin was a diplomat, inventor, the first Postmaster General, and helped write the Declaration of Independence.

💡 Memory hint

Franklin: diplomat, inventor, Postmaster General.

Question 86
65/20Not started

George Washington is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

First president of the United States

All official accepted answers (English)

  • "Father of Our Country"
  • First president of the United States
  • General of the Continental Army
  • President of the Constitutional Convention

Explanation

George Washington is the 'Father of Our Country' and the first U.S. president.

💡 Memory hint

First president; 'Father of Our Country.'

Question 87
Not started

Thomas Jefferson is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

Writer of the Declaration of Independence

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Writer of the Declaration of Independence
  • Third president of the United States
  • Doubled the size of the United States (Louisiana Purchase)
  • First Secretary of State
  • Founded the University of Virginia
  • Writer of the Virginia Statute on Religious Freedom

Explanation

Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence and was the third president.

💡 Memory hint

Wrote the Declaration; 3rd president.

Question 88
Not started

James Madison is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

"Father of the Constitution"

All official accepted answers (English)

  • "Father of the Constitution"
  • Fourth president of the United States
  • President during the War of 1812
  • One of the writers of the Federalist Papers

Explanation

James Madison is the 'Father of the Constitution' and the fourth president.

💡 Memory hint

'Father of the Constitution.'

Question 89
Not started

Alexander Hamilton is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

First Secretary of the Treasury

All official accepted answers (English)

  • First Secretary of the Treasury
  • One of the writers of the Federalist Papers
  • Helped establish the First Bank of the United States
  • Aide to General George Washington
  • Member of the Continental Congress

Explanation

Alexander Hamilton was the first Secretary of the Treasury and a writer of the Federalist Papers.

💡 Memory hint

First Treasury Secretary.

Question 90
Not started

What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803?

Official answer

Louisiana Territory

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Louisiana Territory
  • Louisiana

Explanation

In 1803 the U.S. bought the Louisiana Territory from France (the Louisiana Purchase).

💡 Memory hint

1803 = Louisiana Purchase.

Question 91
Not started

Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s.

Official answer

Civil War

All official accepted answers (English)

  • War of 1812
  • Mexican-American War
  • Civil War
  • Spanish-American War

Explanation

Wars in the 1800s include the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.

💡 Memory hint

Civil War or War of 1812.

Question 92
Not started

Name the U.S. war between the North and the South.

Official answer

The Civil War

All official accepted answers (English)

  • The Civil War
  • Civil War

Explanation

The Civil War was fought between the North and the South.

💡 Memory hint

North vs. South = Civil War.

Question 93
Not started

The Civil War had many important events. Name one.

Official answer

(Battle of) Gettysburg

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Battle of) Fort Sumter
  • Emancipation Proclamation
  • (Battle of) Vicksburg
  • (Battle of) Gettysburg
  • Sherman's March
  • (Surrender at) Appomattox
  • (Battle of) Antietam/Sharpsburg
  • Lincoln was assassinated

Explanation

Key Civil War events include Fort Sumter, Gettysburg, and the surrender at Appomattox.

💡 Memory hint

Gettysburg is an easy one.

Question 94
65/20Not started

Abraham Lincoln is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

Freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation)
  • Saved (or preserved) the Union
  • Led the United States during the Civil War
  • 16th president of the United States
  • Delivered the Gettysburg Address

Explanation

Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves, preserved the Union, and led the country during the Civil War.

💡 Memory hint

Freed the slaves; saved the Union.

Question 95
Not started

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

Official answer

Freed the slaves

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Freed the slaves
  • Freed slaves in the Confederacy
  • Freed slaves in the Confederate states
  • Freed slaves in most Southern states

Explanation

The Emancipation Proclamation freed enslaved people in the Confederate states.

💡 Memory hint

It freed slaves in the South.

Question 96
Not started

What U.S. war ended slavery?

Official answer

The Civil War

All official accepted answers (English)

  • The Civil War
  • Civil War

Explanation

The Civil War ended slavery in the United States.

💡 Memory hint

Civil War ended slavery.

Question 97
Not started

What amendment says all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are U.S. citizens?

Official answer

14th Amendment

Explanation

The 14th Amendment says people born or naturalized in the U.S. (and subject to its jurisdiction) are citizens.

💡 Memory hint

14th Amendment = citizenship.

Question 98
Not started

When did all men get the right to vote?

Official answer

(With the) 15th Amendment

All official accepted answers (English)

  • After the Civil War
  • During Reconstruction
  • (With the) 15th Amendment
  • 1870

Explanation

The 15th Amendment (1870) gave men the right to vote regardless of race.

💡 Memory hint

15th Amendment, 1870.

Question 99
Not started

Name one leader of the women's rights movement in the 1800s.

Official answer

Susan B. Anthony

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Susan B. Anthony
  • Elizabeth Cady Stanton
  • Sojourner Truth
  • Harriet Tubman
  • Lucretia Mott
  • Lucy Stone

Explanation

Leaders included Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton.

💡 Memory hint

Susan B. Anthony.

Question 100
Not started

Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s.

Official answer

World War II

All official accepted answers (English)

  • World War I
  • World War II
  • Korean War
  • Vietnam War
  • (Persian) Gulf War

Explanation

Wars in the 1900s include World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War.

💡 Memory hint

World War I or World War II.

Question 101
Not started

Why did the United States enter World War I?

Official answer

Because Germany attacked U.S. (civilian) ships

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Because Germany attacked U.S. (civilian) ships
  • To support the Allied Powers (England, France, Italy, and Russia)
  • To oppose the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria)

Explanation

The U.S. entered WWI after Germany attacked American ships and to support the Allied Powers.

💡 Memory hint

Germany attacked U.S. ships.

Question 102
Not started

When did all women get the right to vote?

Official answer

(With the) 19th Amendment

All official accepted answers (English)

  • 1920
  • After World War I
  • (With the) 19th Amendment

Explanation

The 19th Amendment (1920) gave women the right to vote.

💡 Memory hint

19th Amendment, 1920.

Question 103
Not started

What was the Great Depression?

Official answer

Longest economic recession in modern history

Explanation

The Great Depression was the longest and deepest economic downturn in modern history.

💡 Memory hint

A long, severe economic crash.

Question 104
Not started

When did the Great Depression start?

Official answer

The Great Crash (1929)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • The Great Crash (1929)
  • Stock market crash of 1929

Explanation

The Great Depression began with the stock market crash of 1929.

💡 Memory hint

Stock market crash of 1929.

Question 105
Not started

Who was president during the Great Depression and World War II?

Official answer

(Franklin) Roosevelt

Explanation

Franklin D. Roosevelt was president during the Great Depression and World War II.

💡 Memory hint

FDR — Franklin Roosevelt.

Question 106
Not started

Why did the United States enter World War II?

Official answer

(Bombing of) Pearl Harbor

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Bombing of) Pearl Harbor
  • Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor
  • To support the Allied Powers (England, France, and Russia)
  • To oppose the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan)

Explanation

The U.S. entered WWII after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor.

💡 Memory hint

Pearl Harbor.

Question 107
Not started

Dwight Eisenhower is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

General during World War II

All official accepted answers (English)

  • General during World War II
  • President at the end of (during) the Korean War
  • 34th president of the United States
  • Signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 (Created the Interstate System)

Explanation

Eisenhower was a WWII general and the 34th president, who created the Interstate Highway System.

💡 Memory hint

WWII general; built the interstate highways.

Question 108
Not started

Who was the United States' main rival during the Cold War?

Official answer

Soviet Union

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Soviet Union
  • USSR
  • Russia

Explanation

The Soviet Union (USSR) was the main U.S. rival during the Cold War.

💡 Memory hint

The Soviet Union.

Question 109
Not started

During the Cold War, what was one main concern of the United States?

Official answer

Communism

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Communism
  • Nuclear war

Explanation

During the Cold War, the U.S. was mainly concerned about communism and nuclear war.

💡 Memory hint

Communism.

Question 110
Not started

Why did the United States enter the Korean War?

Official answer

To stop the spread of communism

Explanation

The U.S. entered the Korean War to stop the spread of communism.

💡 Memory hint

Stop communism.

Question 111
Not started

Why did the United States enter the Vietnam War?

Official answer

To stop the spread of communism

Explanation

The U.S. entered the Vietnam War to stop the spread of communism.

💡 Memory hint

Stop communism.

Question 112
Not started

What did the civil rights movement do?

Official answer

Fought to end racial discrimination

Explanation

The civil rights movement fought to end racial discrimination.

💡 Memory hint

Ended racial discrimination.

Question 113
65/20Not started

Martin Luther King, Jr. is famous for many things. Name one.

Official answer

Fought for civil rights

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Fought for civil rights
  • Worked for equality for all Americans
  • Worked to ensure that people would "not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character"

Explanation

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. fought for civil rights and equality for all Americans.

💡 Memory hint

Civil rights leader.

Question 114
Not started

Why did the United States enter the Persian Gulf War?

Official answer

To force the Iraqi military from Kuwait

Explanation

The U.S. entered the Persian Gulf War to force Iraq's military out of Kuwait.

💡 Memory hint

Push Iraq out of Kuwait.

Question 115
65/20Not started

What major event happened on September 11, 2001 in the United States?

Official answer

Terrorists attacked the United States

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Terrorists attacked the United States
  • Terrorists took over two planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York City
  • Terrorists took over a plane and crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia
  • Terrorists took over a plane originally aimed at Washington, D.C., and crashed in a field in Pennsylvania

Explanation

On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States.

💡 Memory hint

9/11 — terrorist attacks.

Question 116
Not started

Name one U.S. military conflict after the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Official answer

War in Afghanistan

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Global) War on Terror
  • War in Afghanistan
  • War in Iraq

Explanation

Conflicts after 9/11 include the War on Terror and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

💡 Memory hint

War in Afghanistan.

Question 117
Not started

Name one American Indian tribe in the United States.

Official answer

Cherokee

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Apache
  • Blackfeet
  • Cayuga
  • Cherokee
  • Cheyenne
  • Chippewa
  • Choctaw
  • Creek
  • Crow
  • Hopi
  • Huron
  • Inupiat
  • Lakota
  • Mohawk
  • Mohegan
  • Navajo
  • Oneida
  • Onondaga
  • Pueblo
  • Seminole
  • Seneca
  • Shawnee
  • Sioux
  • Teton
  • Tuscarora

Explanation

Examples include the Cherokee, Navajo, Sioux, and Apache, among many federally recognized tribes.

💡 Memory hint

Cherokee or Navajo.

Question 118
Not started

Name one example of an American innovation.

Official answer

Light bulb

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Light bulb
  • Automobile (cars, internal combustion engine)
  • Skyscrapers
  • Airplane
  • Assembly line
  • Landing on the moon
  • Integrated circuit (IC)

Explanation

American innovations include the light bulb, the airplane, the assembly line, and landing on the moon.

💡 Memory hint

Light bulb or airplane.

Question 119
Not started

What is the capital of the United States?

Official answer

Washington, D.C.

Explanation

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C.

💡 Memory hint

Washington, D.C.

Question 120
Not started

Where is the Statue of Liberty?

Official answer

New York (Harbor)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • New York (Harbor)
  • Liberty Island
  • New Jersey
  • Near New York City
  • On the Hudson (River)

Explanation

The Statue of Liberty stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, near New York City.

💡 Memory hint

New York Harbor.

Question 121
65/20Not started

Why does the flag have 13 stripes?

Official answer

(Because there were) 13 original colonies

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Because there were) 13 original colonies
  • (Because the stripes) represent the original colonies

Explanation

The flag has 13 stripes for the 13 original colonies.

💡 Memory hint

13 stripes = 13 colonies.

Question 122
Not started

Why does the flag have 50 stars?

Official answer

(Because there is) one star for each state

All official accepted answers (English)

  • (Because there is) one star for each state
  • (Because) each star represents a state
  • (Because there are) 50 states

Explanation

The flag has 50 stars, one for each state.

💡 Memory hint

50 stars = 50 states.

Question 123
Not started

What is the name of the national anthem?

Official answer

The Star-Spangled Banner

Explanation

The national anthem is 'The Star-Spangled Banner.'

💡 Memory hint

The Star-Spangled Banner.

Question 124
Not started

The Nation's first motto was "E Pluribus Unum." What does that mean?

Official answer

Out of many, one

All official accepted answers (English)

  • Out of many, one
  • We all become one

Explanation

'E Pluribus Unum' is Latin for 'Out of many, one.'

💡 Memory hint

Out of many, one.

Question 125
Not started

What is Independence Day?

Official answer

A holiday to celebrate U.S. independence (from Britain)

All official accepted answers (English)

  • A holiday to celebrate U.S. independence (from Britain)
  • The country's birthday

Explanation

Independence Day celebrates U.S. independence from Britain — the country's birthday, July 4.

💡 Memory hint

July 4 — America's birthday.

Question 126
65/20Not started

Name three national U.S. holidays.

Official answer

New Year's Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving Day

All official accepted answers (English)

  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Presidents Day (Washington's Birthday)
  • Memorial Day
  • Juneteenth
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Columbus Day
  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day

Explanation

National holidays include New Year's Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

💡 Memory hint

New Year's, July 4th, Thanksgiving.

Question 127
Not started

What is Memorial Day?

Official answer

A holiday to honor soldiers who died in military service

Explanation

Memorial Day honors soldiers who died serving in the military.

💡 Memory hint

Honors those who died serving.

Question 128
Not started

What is Veterans Day?

Official answer

A holiday to honor people in the (U.S.) military

All official accepted answers (English)

  • A holiday to honor people in the (U.S.) military
  • A holiday to honor people who have served (in the U.S. military)

Explanation

Veterans Day honors all who have served in the U.S. military.

💡 Memory hint

Honors all veterans.

Official questions and answers are shown in English because most applicants answer the real test in English (65/20-qualified applicants may test in their own language). Explanations and memory hints follow your chosen study language.

Not affiliated with USCIS. For study purposes only — not legal advice.