AP U.S. Gov Amendments, Foundational Documents, Clauses

1st Amendment

Protects religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition from government interference.

2nd Amendment

Protects the right to bear arms, linked to maintaining a militia.

3rd Amendment

Prevents the quartering of soldiers in private homes without consent.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures; requires warrants with probable cause.

5th Amendment

Guarantees due process, protection from self-incrimination, double jeopardy, and ensures just compensation.

6th Amendment

Guarantees a speedy, public trial, jury, legal counsel, and the right to confront witnesses.

7th Amendment

Preserves the right to a jury trial in civil cases involving monetary disputes.

8th Amendment

Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail or fines.

9th Amendment

States that people have rights beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers not given to the federal government to the states or the people.

11th Amendment

Limits lawsuits against states by individuals from other states or countries.

13th Amendment

Abolishes slavery and involuntary servitude (except as punishment for a crime).

14th Amendment

Defines citizenship and guarantees equal protection and due process; basis for incorporation.

15th Amendment

Prohibits denying the right to vote based on race.

17th Amendment

Provides for direct election of U.S. Senators.

19th Amendment

Grants women the right to vote.

22nd Amendment

Limits presidents to two elected terms.

24th Amendment

Bans poll taxes in federal elections.

25th Amendment

Clarifies presidential succession and disability.

Articles of Confederation

Creates a weak national government with no taxing, executive, or strong judicial power; prioritizes state sovereignty.

Brutus No. 1

Argues a strong national government threatens liberty and that a large republic cannot represent citizens effectively.

Constitution of the United States

Establishes federalism, separation of powers, checks and balances, and a stronger national government.

Declaration of Independence

Justifies independence by asserting natural rights, social contract, and consent of the governed.

Declaration of Independence

Justifies independence by asserting natural rights, social contract, and consent of the governed.

Federalist No. 10

Argues a large republic controls factions by dispersing power and preventing majority tyranny.

Federalist No. 51

Explains how separation of powers and checks and balances prevent abuse of power.

Federalist No. 70

Defends a strong, energetic executive as necessary for effective leadership and accountability.

Federalist No. 78

Justifies an independent judiciary and establishes the concept of judicial review.

Establishment Clause | 1st Amendment

Government cannot establish a religion.

Free Exercise Clause | 1st Amendment

Protects religious practice.

Due Process Clause | 5th & 14th Amendments

Guarantees fair procedures and fundamental rights.

Equal Protection Clause | 14th Amendment

Laws must apply equally to all people.

Necessary and Proper Clause | Article 1, Sec. 8

Allows Congress to pass laws needed to carry out enumerated powers.

Commerce Clause | Article 1, Sec. 8

Gives Congress power to regulate interstate and foreign commerce.

Enumerated Powers | Article 1, Sec. 8

Lists specific powers of Congress (tax, regulate trade, declare war).

Elastic Clause | Article 1, Sec. 8

Expands congressional authority.

Appointment Power | Article 2, Sec. 2

President appoints officials and judges with Senate consent.

Take Care Clause | Article 2, Sec. 3

President must faithfully execute the laws.