American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

The Antiquities Act allowed the president to designate what without congressional approval?

1. National Parks

2. National Monuments

3. Land grants

4. Federal reserves

The correct answer is: National Monuments

The Antiquities Act, enacted in 1906, empowers the president of the United States to designate national monuments from federal lands without needing congressional approval. This act was established to protect significant archaeological, historical, and cultural sites, as well as natural wonders, by conserving them for future generations. The emphasis on preserving these areas has led to the designation of numerous national monuments, many of which serve to protect key ecological and historical resources. The other choices do not align with the stipulations of the Antiquities Act. National Parks require specific legislation passed by Congress to be established, which applies a different process than that allowed by the Antiquities Act. Land grants are generally associated with transferring ownership of land and do not pertain to the protections offered by the Antiquities Act. Lastly, federal reserves refer to areas designated for particular federal purposes, typically involving resources or economic development, and do not fall under the monument designation authority granted by the Antiquities Act. Thus, the correct choice highlights a critical aspect of presidential power in land conservation and management.