Americans are dangerously ignorant when it comes to how their government is run.  On a recent civics quiz the average score was 49, meaning we failed.  Less than half of Americans can name all three branches of government. Only 27 percent of Americans know that the Bill of Rights prohibits the government from establishing an official religion in the U.S. 54 percent do not know that the Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, not the president.  Not understanding civics could be the downfall of America.  A boost in civics education will reduce voter apathy, increase pride in our communities, and allow citizens to properly keep elected officials in check.  We must write our government officials and insist that civics education be given more attention in schools.