U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyMedium
What does the U.S. Constitution primarily do?
- ALists the grievances against the British monarchy.
- BDeclares independence from foreign rule.
- CEstablishes the framework of the federal government and defines citizens' rights.
- DOutlines the economic policies for international trade.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Establishes the framework of the federal government and defines citizens' rights.
The Constitution's primary role is to set up the structure of the federal government (legislative, executive, judicial branches) and to guarantee the fundamental rights of citizens.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This was a key part of the Declaration of Independence.
- B. This was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence.
- D. While it touches on commerce, its primary role is not economic policy for international trade.
Purpose of the Constitution
To establish the structure of the U.S. federal government and define the rights of its citizens, serving as the supreme law of the land.
- Creates three branches of government
- Outlines powers and limits of government
- Includes the Bill of Rights to protect freedoms
Memory trick: The Constitution is the BLUEPRINT for government and rights.