Is the US constitution too difficult to amend? Flashcards
What is the main purpose of the US Constitution?
To establish the framework of the federal government and outline the rights of the states and individuals.
True or False: The US Constitution has never been amended since its ratification.
False.
How many amendments does the US Constitution currently have?
27 amendments.
What percentage of both houses of Congress is required to propose an amendment?
Two-thirds.
Fill in the blank: An amendment must be ratified by _____ of the state legislatures or conventions to become law.
three-fourths.
What is one argument for why the US Constitution is too difficult to amend?
The high thresholds for proposal and ratification make it challenging to respond to changing societal needs.
What is one argument against the idea that the US Constitution is too difficult to amend?
The difficulty ensures stability and prevents hasty changes to fundamental laws.
What is the term for the first ten amendments to the US Constitution?
The Bill of Rights.
True or False: All amendments to the US Constitution have been proposed by Congress.
False.
What role do state conventions play in the amendment process?
State conventions can be called to ratify an amendment.
Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?
The 13th Amendment.
Multiple Choice: Which amendment granted women the right to vote? A) 15th B) 19th C) 24th D) 26th
B) 19th.
What is the significance of the Equal Protection Clause in the 14th Amendment?
It provides that no state shall deny any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
What is one of the criticisms regarding the amendment process?
It can be overly rigid and slow in addressing contemporary issues.
Fill in the blank: The amendment process is outlined in Article _____ of the Constitution.
V.
How many amendments have been proposed but not ratified?
Over 11,000 amendments have been proposed, but only 27 have been ratified.
True or False: The framers of the Constitution intended for it to be easy to amend.
False.
What does the phrase ‘living Constitution’ refer to?
The idea that the Constitution can evolve and adapt over time through interpretation and amendment.
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?
The 26th Amendment.
What is the significance of the 2nd Amendment?
It protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms.
