Foundational Documents

Federalist 10

Written by James Madison, argues that a large republic will help control the effects of factions by limiting their power

Brutus 1

Warns that a large republic will lead to corruption and loss of liberty because it is too large to truly represent the people

Federalist 70

Written by Alexander Hamilton, argues that there should a an energetic executive so there will be quick decision making, accountability and in general strong leadership

Federalist 78

Written by Alexander Hamilton, argues that there should be an independent judiciary with the ability of judicial review

Articles of Confederation

One branch of government, legislative, so it had a no power to tax, form armies, had a hard time passing laws because 9/13 states were needed

Pluralism

Many groups compete to influence politics, so no one has dominance

Elitism

A smaller and wealthy elite controls all politics

Participatory

Citizens can participate in politics and don’t rely on representatives

Federalist 51

Written by James Madison, argues for separation of powers and checks and balances so no branch has too much power