Module 4: The Presidency
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
With this oath, a democratically elected representative is sworn in as the President of the United States. As their representative, what characteristics do the people value in a President? Many see the President as all-powerful, but what powers does the Chief Executive actually possess? What does the nation do if something happens to the President? Throughout this module, you will learn about the organization of, the powers granted to, and the components that comprise the executive branch of American government.
Getting Started
Before you begin learning about the executive branch, try your skill at this trivia game. The questions are focused on former American Presidents and Vice Presidents. For each correct answer, you will score a point. To see how high you can score, click the player button and begin.
Key Vocabulary
To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.
Cabinet
caucus
civil service
clemency
electoral college
executive agreement
executive order
federal bureaucracy
general election
government corporation
independent agency
regulatory commission
keynote address
pardon
Pendleton Act of 1883
platform
presidential line of succession
primary election
reprieve
spoils system
State of the Union Address
War Powers Act of 1973