Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 27
Washington Post Publishes 20-Question U.S. Civics Quiz for 250th Anniversary
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 27

Washington Post Publishes 20-Question U.S. Civics Quiz for 250th Anniversary

1 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 27

Summary

  • A 20-question Washington Post quiz asks readers to test their knowledge of American history and government as the United States approaches its 250th birthday.
  • The questions were drawn from 2025 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services study materials and cover topics from the national anthem to the Constitution, Congress and the Supreme Court.
  • A rule change that took effect last fall means aspiring U.S. citizens must answer 12 of 20 questions correctly, giving readers a benchmark for the quiz.
  • The interactive is tied to Fourth of July coverage and the semiquincentennial, using a holiday usually associated with cookouts and fireworks to refocus attention on the country's founding and civic knowledge.

Insights

How does the civic knowledge of native-born Americans compare to immigrants studying for the official citizenship test?
As states mandate new civics curricula, will they create engaged citizens or just better test-takers?