Entry Exam Category: High School Equivalency Exams
Course: General Education Development (GED)
Exam: GED Social Studies Practice Test
Practice Question
Extract
This passage discusses the first national government in the United States.
In 1781, the 13 former British American colonies established a common government when they ratified the Articles of Confederation. The document established a "firm league of friendship" between the states and reserved the greatest share of political authority to the individual states. The new confederation had only one branch, which was made up of a one-house legislature in which the states were equally represented. Among other powers, the new government had the power to conduct foreign affairs for the 13 independent states. It had the power to make war and peace and to negotiate treaties with foreign countries. It could also settle disputes between the states, Including disputes over western territories. Each of the states retained their "sovereignty, freedom and independence." Under the Articles, Congress could not collect taxes, regulate trade between states, or enforce laws. The confederation was replaced in 1787 by the government created by the U.S. Constitution.
In 1781, the 13 former British American colonies established a common government when they ratified the Articles of Confederation. The document established a "firm league of friendship" between the states and reserved the greatest share of political authority to the individual states. The new confederation had only one branch, which was made up of a one-house legislature in which the states were equally represented. Among other powers, the new government had the power to conduct foreign affairs for the 13 independent states. It had the power to make war and peace and to negotiate treaties with foreign countries. It could also settle disputes between the states, Including disputes over western territories. Each of the states retained their "sovereignty, freedom and independence." Under the Articles, Congress could not collect taxes, regulate trade between states, or enforce laws. The confederation was replaced in 1787 by the government created by the U.S. Constitution.
What is the meaning of confederation in this passage?
Answer Choices
- A: a government in which the whole population of a country votes to make laws for the people
- B: a political union in which power is divided between a strong central authority and the various other political units
- C: a political union in which the component units retain significant independence from the central government
- D: a government in which people vote to elect representatives who make laws for the people
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Text emphasizes states retained "sovereignty, freedom and independence" with weak central government