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Civics Test Question 12: What is the economic system of the United States?

A question from the 2025 civics test, with the answers USCIS publishes and our explanation.

Translation
12
What is the economic system of the United States?美国的经济制度是什么?¿Cuál es el sistema económico de los Estados Unidos?
★ 65/20

Official answers

Any one of these is correct.

  • Capitalism资本主义Capitalismo
  • Free market economy自由市场经济Economía de libre mercado

Explanation

The United States has a capitalist, free market economy: businesses and individuals own property, and prices are mostly set by supply and demand in the market rather than by government planning.

Memory tip

💡 Capitalism, or free market economy. This is also a starred 65/20 question.

More questions in American Government · Principles

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