Foundational Documents To Know for AP AP Gov (copy)

What is the central argument of Federalist 10 by James Madison?

Advocates for a large republic to manage factions effectively, arguing that a diverse republic dilutes the power of any single faction.

What are the main concerns raised in Brutus I?

Warns against ratifying the Constitution, arguing that a strong federal government threatens individual liberties and calls for a Bill of Rights.

What foundational principle does the Declaration of Independence establish?

It establishes that all individuals possess inalienable rights and justifies revolting against governments that fail to protect those rights.

What weaknesses did the Articles of Confederation highlight?

The Articles created a weak central government and lacked essential powers such as taxation, highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.

What does the Bill of Rights protect?

It guarantees individual liberties, such as free speech and protection against unreasonable searches, and reserves powers for the states.

What does Federalist 51 advocate for regarding government structure?

Advocates for separation of powers to prevent government overreach and ensure that no single branch dominates.

Why does Federalist 70 argue for a strong executive?

It defends the need for a single, strong executive to ensure efficient governance and foster accountability.

What is the significance of Marbury v. Madison (1803)?

It established the principle of judicial review, allowing the judiciary to invalidate laws or actions that violate the Constitution.

What did McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) affirm?

It affirmed federal supremacy and the recognition of implied powers under the Elastic Clause.

What is the outcome of Schenck v. US (1919) concerning free speech?

It established the "clear and present danger" test, limiting free speech during wartime.

What did Brown v. Board of Education (1954) accomplish?

It declared that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional, overturning "separate but equal".

What principle did Tinker v. Des Moines (1969) protect?

It protected symbolic speech in schools, emphasizing that it does not cause substantial disruption.

What did the court establish in Engel v. Vitale (1962)?

It prohibited state-sponsored prayer in public schools, reinforcing the separation of church and state.

What right did Gideon v. Wainwright (1963) guarantee?

It guaranteed the right to legal counsel for defendants in state courts, even if they cannot afford an attorney.

What did Roe v. Wade (1973) legalize?

It legalized abortion under the right to privacy as inferred from the Fourteenth Amendment.

What issue did Shaw v. Reno (1993) address?

It prohibited racial gerrymandering, requiring redistricting plans to meet strict scrutiny under the Equal Protection Clause.

What limitation did United States v. Lopez (1995) impose?

It limited federal power by ruling that the Commerce Clause does not cover non-economic activities, like carrying firearms in school zones.

What did Citizens United v. FEC (2010) rule about corporate spending?

It expanded corporate political spending rights, emphasizing that political spending is a form of protected free speech.