AP U.S. Government Foundational Documents

Declaration of Independence

Declared independence from Britain and asserted the protection of natural rights and that government gets its power from the consent of the governed

Articles of Confederation

Original governing document of the U.S., creating a weak national government, no power to raise an army, and requiring a majority of the states to change the laws

U.S. Constitution

The current ruling document of the U.S., establishing the three branches of government and the relationship between the states and the government

Federalist #10

While factions are inevitable due to human nature and interests, a large republic ensures that they compete for battle and ensure that one doesn’t become all-powerful

Brutus #1

Opposed to the ratification of the Constitution, fearing that a strong national government would impede on state sovereignty and become tyranncial

Federalist #51

Argued that the separation of powers to the three branches of government, and that they help keep the others in line

Federalist #70

Argues for a capable and energetic chief executive, with the president requiring the necessary power to make decisions

Federalist #78

The Supreme Court is the “least dangerous” branch of the government, with it maintaining political independence and striking down actions as unconstitutional

Letter from Birmingham Jail

Nonviolent tactics garner public sympathy and spur government action, and that justice delayed is justice denied