Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which document laid the groundwork for U.S. law and government?

1. The Magna Carta

2. The U.S. Bill of Rights

3. The U.S. Constitution

4. The Federalist Papers

The correct answer is: The U.S. Constitution

The U.S. Constitution is the foundational document that established the framework for the government of the United States, outlining the structure, principles, and functions of government. It serves as the supreme law of the land, providing a balance of powers among the three branches of government: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Constitution also delineates the powers granted to the federal government, the rights of the states, and the rights of the citizens, which are critical for maintaining order and protecting liberties within the nation. While the other documents mentioned have significant historical importance, they do not provide the same comprehensive foundation for U.S. law and government as the Constitution does. The Magna Carta introduced ideas of limited government and individual rights but is more closely associated with the development of constitutional law in England. The U.S. Bill of Rights, while crucial in protecting individual freedoms, serves as an amendment to the Constitution rather than a foundational document. The Federalist Papers were influential in promoting the ratification of the Constitution and explaining its principles but were written after the Constitution was drafted and therefore do not lay the groundwork for U.S. law in the same way the Constitution does.