government Ap exam definitoons

Federalist 10

James Madison argued that a large republic helps control factions and protects minority rights better than small ones.

Brutus 1

An Anti-Federalist paper warning that a strong central government would overpower the states and threaten personal freedom.

Declaration of Independence

A document stating that the American colonies were breaking away from British rule to form their own country.

Articles of Confederation

The first U.S. government plan that gave too much power to states and made the national government too weak.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution that protect individual freedoms like speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial.

Federalist 51

Explains how checks and balances and separation of powers protect against government abuse.

Federalist 70

Argues that a single strong president is better for leadership and accountability.

Federalist 78

Says that the least dangerous and supports life terms for judges to stay independent. Also defends judicial review

Marbury v Madison

Established judicial review, giving courts the power to strike down unconstitutional laws.

McCulloch v Maryland

Affirmed federal supremacy and the use of implied powers under the Elastic Clause.

Schenck v U.S

Ruled that speech can be limited during wartime if it creates a “clear and present danger.”

Brown v Board of Education

Ended racial segregation in public schools by saying “separate but equal” is not equal.

Baker v. Carr

Allowed federal courts to decide redistricting cases; established “one person, one vote.”

Engel v Vitale

Banned official prayer in public schools, saying it violates the First Amendment.

Gideon v Wainwright

Guaranteed the right to a lawyer for people who can’t afford one in criminal cases.

Tinker v Des Moines

Students have free speech rights in school as long as it doesn’t disrupt learning.

New York Times Co v U.S

Protected freedom of the press by allowing the Pentagon Papers to be published.

Wisconsin v Yoder

Said Amish families could refuse sending their kids to school past 8th grade for religious reasons.

Roe v Wade

Recognized a woman’s right to choose an abortion under the right to privacy.

Shaw v Reno

Ruled that redistricting based on race must be closely examined to avoid racial gerrymandering.

United States v Lopez

Limited Congress’s power by ruling that guns in schools don’t relate to interstate commerce.

Citizens United v FEC

Allowed unlimited spending on political ads by corporations and unions under free speech.

McDonald v Chicago

Applied the Second Amendment to the states, protecting the right to own guns.

Majoritarian Tyranny

When the majority uses its power to take away rights from the minority.

Separation of Powers

Divides government responsibilities among three branches to prevent abuse of power.

Checks and Balances

Each branch of government can limit the others to keep power balanced.

Elastic Clause

Allows Congress to make laws that are “necessary and proper” to carry out its powers.