GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
A newly naturalized citizen is studying the U.S. Constitution and learns about the process by which amendments are added. They note that a proposed amendment must be ratified by a significant portion of the states. This process best exemplifies which principle of American government?
- AFederalism
- BPopular Sovereignty
- CSeparation of Powers
- DJudicial Review
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Federalism
The amendment process requires both federal (Congress) and state action (ratification by states), illustrating the division of power between the national and state governments, which is the core principle of federalism.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Popular sovereignty is the idea that the government's power comes from the consent of the governed, which is a broader principle not specifically highlighted by the state ratification step.
- C. Separation of powers divides governmental authority into distinct branches (legislative, executive, judicial), which is different from the federal-state power division.
- D. Judicial review refers to the power of courts to determine if laws are constitutional, which is not directly related to the amendment process itself.
Federalism
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided, by a constitution, between a central (federal) government and regional (state) governments. Both levels of government have their own distinct powers and responsibilities.
- Divides power between national and state governments.
- Both levels derive power from the people.
- Ensures a balance of power and prevents tyranny.
Memory trick: Fed-Ex delivers power both ways: to the nation and to the states.