required documents

articles of confederation

The first governing document of the United States, established a confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government, replaced by the Constitution in 1789.

remember: confederation of states

Brutus No 1

An Anti-Federalist paper arguing against the Constitution's ratification, emphasizing the dangers of a strong central government.

remember: brute force against the strong gov

Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that established the framework for the national government, outlining the structure, powers, and limitations of government institutions, as well as the rights of citizens.

"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union”

Declaration of Independence

Document asserting the American colonies' right to self-governance and independence from British rule, adopted on July 4, 1776.

"When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another”

Federalist 10

An essay by James Madison that addresses the dangers of factionalism and advocates for a large republic to mitigate those dangers.

remember: 10-12 factions in hunger games

Federalist 70

An essay by Alexander Hamilton arguing for a strong executive leader to ensure effective governance.

remember: you need a leader before you can make the gov → thinking of washington

Federalist 78

An essay by Alexander Hamilton that discusses the judiciary branch's power and the importance of an independent judiciary for protecting rights.

Letter from Birmingham Jail

A letter written by Martin Luther King Jr. while incarcerated, advocating for nonviolent resistance against racial injustice and highlighting the urgency of social change.