Foundational Documents

DOI

all people have natural rights (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness), and that government gets its power from the people, who can overthrow it if it becomes unjust.

Articles of Confederation

created a weak national government with most power given to the states, lacking the ability to tax, regulate trade, or enforce laws effectively.

Constitution

establishes a stronger federal government with three branches, based on popular sovereignty, separation of powers, and checks and balances.

Federalist No. 10

argues that a large republic can best control factions by increasing diversity and preventing any single group from gaining too much power.

Federalist No. 51

explains that separation of powers and checks and balances are necessary to prevent tyranny by making each branch limit the others.

Brutus No. 1

argues that the Constitution creates a government that is too strong and that a large republic will not properly represent the people or protect their freedoms.

Federalist No. 70

argues that a single, strong president is necessary for effective leadership, quick decision-making, and accountability in government.

Federalist No. 78

explains that the judicial branch is the weakest branch but has the power of judicial review to declare laws unconstitutional.

Federalist No. 1

introduces the debate over the Constitution and argues that ratification is a critical decision that will shape the future of the United States.

Letter from a Birmingham Jail

argues that individuals have a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws and that waiting for justice only prolongs injustice.