ged social studies practice test

A a high school equivalency exam designed for individuals who did not graduate from high school but want to demonstrate they have the same knowledge and skills as a high school graduate

The United States fought in World War II from 1941 to 1945. Which statement explains the peak annual inflation rate during the 1940s?
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  • A. Consumer demand increased due to the end of rationing.
  • B. Manufacturing decreased because of less demand for weapons.
  • C. Government spending increased due to national defense.
  • D. Wages decreased because of competition for scarce jobs.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The peak annual inflation rate during the 1940s can be attributed to increased government spending due to national defense efforts. This surge in spending stimulated the economy and raised prices as the demand for goods and services outpaced supply. Option A is incorrect; while consumer demand did rise post-rationing, it was not the primary driver of inflation during the war years. Option B is also wrong, as manufacturing actually increased during the war to meet military needs. Option D misrepresents the labor market; wages generally rose due to high demand for workers, not decreased. Thus, government spending for defense was the key factor in driving inflation during this period.

Other Related Questions

Which statement identifies the purpose of President Nixon's message?
  • A. to convince Congress that technological advancement and population growth must be slowed to protect the environment
  • B. to convince Congress that industrial polluters of the air and water should not pay for cleaning the environment
  • C. to convince Congress that it must take part in action to address human damage to the environment
  • D. to convince Congress that there should be no benefits for businesses that pollute the environment
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

President Nixon's message aimed to mobilize Congress to actively engage in addressing environmental degradation caused by human activities. This focus on collective action underscores the urgency of legislative involvement in environmental protection. Option A misinterprets the goal, as Nixon did not advocate for slowing technological advancement but rather for responsible management. Option B inaccurately suggests that he supported industrial polluters avoiding responsibility, which contradicts his environmental stance. Option D implies a complete lack of support for businesses, neglecting the balanced approach Nixon promoted towards regulatory measures and economic growth.
What is the mean number of people who became legal residents of the United States during this five-year period?
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  • A. 1,119,823
  • B. 223,504
  • C. 5,599,113
  • D. 1,107,126
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

To determine the mean number of legal residents over the five-year period, one must sum the total number of residents and divide by five. The correct calculation yields a mean of 1,119,823, reflecting the average annual influx. Option B (223,504) represents a miscalculation, likely reflecting a single year's data rather than an average. Option C (5,599,113) incorrectly totals the residents without division, suggesting a cumulative number rather than an average. Option D (1,107,126) is close but does not accurately reflect the mean, indicating a minor arithmetic error.
Which historical event shaped President Wilson's point of view?
  • A. the enactment of the Neutrality Acts
  • B. the building of the Panama Canal
  • C. the outcome of the Spanish-American War
  • D. the fighting in World War I
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

President Wilson's perspective was profoundly shaped by the fighting in World War I, as it highlighted the need for a new approach to international relations and the promotion of democracy. His commitment to a peaceful resolution and the establishment of the League of Nations stemmed from the devastation of the war. Option A, the Neutrality Acts, reflects a desire to avoid conflict, but they were enacted after Wilson's initial views were formed. Option B, the Panama Canal, was significant for U.S. expansion but did not directly influence Wilson's foreign policy. Option C, the Spanish-American War, marked an earlier phase of U.S. imperialism, contrasting with Wilson's focus on self-determination and peace.
What was the mean population across the British American colonies in 1700?
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  • A. 56,000
  • B. 21,000
  • C. 6,000
  • D. 16,000
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

In 1700, the mean population across the British American colonies was approximately 16,000. This figure reflects the early colonial growth and settlement patterns during that period. Option A (56,000) overestimates the population, as it does not account for the smaller settlements and rural areas that characterized the colonies at that time. Option B (21,000) is also too high, misrepresenting the demographic data available for the early 18th century. Option C (6,000) significantly underestimates the population, ignoring the established colonies with growing communities. Thus, D accurately represents the mean population based on historical records.