Question

Which of the following best illustrates how the “wagon wheel” analogy applies to the U.S. system of government? A. A wagon wheel is one of four wheels needed to stabilize a wagon. B. The hub of a wagon wheel holds in place the spokes, which strengthen the structure of the wheel. C. A wagon wheel’s hub and spokes are made of different materials. D. A wagon wheel is created in several pieces and then assembled.

Short answer

Option B best illustrates the "wagon wheel" analogy as it applies to the U.S. system of government, as it considers the hub as the central government, holding in place the various branches and components (the spokes) that support and strengthen the overall structure of the government.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Wagon Wheel Analogy

A wagon wheel consists of a central hub, which connects to a series of spokes, which in turn connect to the outer rim. The hub acts as the central point from which the spokes radiate, supporting and stabilizing the wheel. We now need to relate this analogy to the U.S. system of government.

Analyzing Option A

Option A states that a wagon wheel is one of four wheels needed to stabilize a wagon. This does not provide any direct correlation to the U.S. system of government, and as such, does not seem to illustrate the wagon wheel analogy in the context of the government.

Analyzing Option B

Option B states: The hub of a wagon wheel holds in place the spokes, which strengthen the structure of the wheel. This can be related to the U.S. system of government by considering the hub as the central government that holds in place the various branches and components (the spokes) that support and strengthen the overall structure of the government.

Analyzing Option C

Option C states: A wagon wheel's hub and spokes are made of different materials. This statement does not provide any direct analogy to the U.S. system of government, and as such is not the correct answer.

Analyzing Option D

Option D states: A wagon wheel is created in several pieces and then assembled. While this may hint at the idea of a government being composed of different parts, it does not explain the wagon wheel analogy to the U.S. government as clearly as Option B.

Selecting the Best Answer

After analyzing each option, Option B, which states "The hub of a wagon wheel holds in place the spokes, which strengthen the structure of the wheel," appears to be the best illustration of the wagon wheel analogy as it applies to the U.S. system of government.