U.S. Government Foundations: Articles, Constitution, Supreme Court Cases & Key Amendments

Articles of Confederation

Established a 'firm league of friendship' among the states, creating a weak central government with limited powers.

Declaration of Independence

Argues that all men are created equal with unalienable rights, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.

Federalist No. 10

Argues that a large republic is better suited to control the effects of factions than a small democracy.

Brutus No. 1

Argues against the proposed Constitution, claiming it would lead to a consolidation of power in the national government at the expense of the states.

Federalist No. 51

Argues for the system of checks and balances and separation of powers to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

Federalist No. 70

Argues for a strong, unitary executive branch led by a single president rather than a plural executive.

Federalist No. 78

Argues for an independent judiciary with the power of judicial review.

Letter from Birmingham Jail

Argues for the moral necessity of direct action and civil disobedience in the face of unjust laws.

Article I

Establishes the legislative branch and its powers.

Article II

Establishes the executive branch and its powers.

Article III

Establishes the judicial branch and its powers.

Article IV

Addresses relations among the states and with the federal government.

Article V

Outlines the process for amending the Constitution.

Article VI

Establishes the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

Commerce Clause

Gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce.