Foundational Documents AP US Gov

Declaration of Independence Democratic Ideal #1

Natural Rights

This means people are born with that the government cannot take away, like life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Declaration of Independence Democratic Ideal #2

Social Contract

This means the government gets its power from the people, and if the government does not protect their rights, the people have the right to change it.

Articles of Confederation Weakness #1

No Power to Tax

The national government could not collect taxes so they couldn’t raise money to run the country or pay debts.

Articles of Confederation Weakness #2

No National Army

The government could not raise a national army. This was a problem because it made it hard to defend the country or stop rebellions like Shays’ Rebellion.

Brutus No. 1 Concept #1

Small Republic

Brutus believed the government should be small to prevent it from being too powerful

Brutus No. 1 Concept #2

Close to the people

The state governments would be closer to the people so they would understand what they needed better

Federalist No. 10 Concept #1

Federalism

The states would still have their own governments with their own powers to provide for the needs of people in the state.

Federalist No. 10 Concept #2

Representative Government

Madison believed citizens should elect representatives to make decisions. This would help filter public opinion and protect against mob rule.

Federalist No. 51 Concept #1

Separation of Powers

Government should be divided into three branches (legislative, executive, judicial) so no one branch becomes too powerful.

Federalist No. 51 Concept #2

Checks and Balances

Each branch should have the power to limit the other branches. This protects against tyranny.

Federalist No. 70 Concept #1

Single Executive

Argued for one president instead of multiple leaders. A single executive would be more decisive and effective.

Federalist No. 70 Concept #2

Energy in the Executive

Hamilton believed the president needs enough power to act quickly and protect the nation, especially in emergencies. Also to be decisive

Federalist No. 78 Concept #1

Lifetime Tenure

Argued Judges should serve for life so they dont focus on politics or public opinion and can be nonpartisan

Federalist No. 78 Concept #2

Judicial Review

The courts should have the power to declare laws unconstitutional. This ensures the Constitution remains the highest law of the land.