Tuesday, March 06, 2007

The Ten Most Interesting Things About The US Government & History

I have mentioned that I had to study 96 questions about US Government & History to prepare for yesterday's interview and testing. It has been requested that I share the top ten most interesting things I was required to know. I guess this is also fitting since the interview I expected to take 2 hours only took about 10 minutes. First I have to tell you that in this list I would want to say as well as most interesting these are the 10 I find to have the most meaning.

1. What kind of government does the United States have? Republic. Before this I would have said democracy.

2. What is the most important right granted to United States citizens? The right to vote. I not only see this as a right, but as a responsibility. It was one of my reasons for wanting my citizenship as the decisions made in this country will affect my children as they grow up. Just as a on the side, I will not be voting for Hillary Clinton for many reasons. While it would be something to have the first female president, this alone will not gain my vote.

3.What are the first 10 amendments of the Constitution called? The Bill Of Rights. These guarantee the rights of individuals and limits government power.

4. Name one right or freedom guaranteed by the first amendment. The rights of freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and to petition the Government. I think these rights are often taken for granted by many. There are so many countries in the world that do not get to experience them and we should value them.

5. What are some of the basic beliefs of the Declaration of Independence? That all men are created equal and have the right to life, libery, and the pursuit of happiness. After watching the movie "Pursuit Of Happyness" I was able to remember this one easily and also a new appreciation for it.

6. Who elects the President? The electoral college.

7. What are the three branches of the government? The executive, judicial, and legislative.

8. How many supreme court justices are there? Nine. They are nominated by the President (another question). The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is John G. Roberts (another question).

9. Who becomes President if both the President and Vice President die? The speaker of the house (Nacy Pelowsi). The thought of this one is scary!!

10. What group has the power to declare war? Congress has the power to declare war.

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