American Government
Unit 1-1 Review
1. What four characteristics define a nation-state?
2. What are the 4 main purposes of government?
3. How do various theories explain the origin of government?
4. Define government.
5. What are the similarities and differences between a unitary government and a federal government
system?
6. What are the main purposes of a constitution?
7. What are the three major forms of government as defined by number of people who hold political
power?
8. What are the sub-types found under each of the three major forms of government (#7)? Give an
example of each.
9. What are the main characteristics of a democracy?
10. Why is free enterprise important to a democracy?
11. In what ways has the United States modified its free enterprise system?
12. According to Karl Marx, what was the ultimate goal of true communism?
13. U.S. citizens sometimes complain about government, claiming it has too much power and control
over their lives. Why do you think they feel this way?
14. What are the major advantages of a federal system of government?
15. How important do you think a written constitution is to a democratic form of government?
16. Critics argue that the low voter turnout in recent elections is a weakness in our democratic system.
Do you agree or disagree? Explain your viewpoint.
17. Why is some government involvement necessary for economic systems to function?
18. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of capitalism?