Foundational Documents To Know for AP AP Gov (copy)

Federalist 10

Argues for a large republic to manage the dangers of factions effectively, protecting minority rights.

Brutus I

Written by Anti-Federalists, it cautions against the Constitution, claiming it would lead to tyranny and calling for a Bill of Rights.

Declaration of Independence

Asserts inalienable rights for individuals and justifies revolution against oppressive governments.

Articles of Confederation

Established a weak central government, highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual liberties.

Marbury v. Madison

Established judicial review, empowering the judiciary to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Affirmed federal supremacy and established implied powers through the Necessary and Proper Clause.

Schenck v. US

Limited free speech in wartime under the clear and present danger test.

Brown v. Board of Education

Declared that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal, ending racial segregation in public schools.

Gideon v. Wainwright

Guaranteed the right to legal counsel in criminal cases, applicable to state courts.

Tinker v. Des Moines

Protected symbolic speech in schools as long as it does not cause substantial disruption.

New York Times Co. v. US

Strengthened freedom of the press against prior restraint by the government.

Roe v. Wade

Legalized abortion under the right to privacy, balancing women's rights with state interests.

Citizens United v. FEC

Expanded corporate political spending rights, equating political spending with free speech.

McDonald v. Chicago

Incorporated the Second Amendment to the states, protecting the right to bear arms.