Unit 3

Articles of Confederation

The first U.S. government plan, which was too weak—lacked a president and power to tax.

Brutus 1

An Anti-Federalist paper warning that a strong national government would take away people's rights.

Declaration of Independence

The document stating that the U.S. was breaking away from Britain, affirming that all people have rights.

Federalist 10

Madison's argument that a large republic helps control factions that can cause problems.

Federalist 51

Explains checks and balances and separation of powers to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Federalist 70

Hamilton's assertion that the U.S. needs a strong, single president for quick decision-making.

Federalist 78

Hamilton's claim that judges should be independent and have the power of judicial review to strike down bad laws.

MLK’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail”

A letter in which MLK defends peaceful protests against unjust segregation laws.

Marbury v. Madison

Established judicial review, allowing courts to cancel laws that contradict the Constitution.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Affirmed that the national government is stronger than states and that Congress has implied powers.

Schenck v. U.S.

Speech can be limited if it presents a 'clear and present danger'.

Brown v. Board

This 1954 case ended school segregation, declaring that 'separate but equal' is not acceptable.

Baker v. Carr

Determined that courts can hear cases regarding unfair voting districts, supporting the principle of 'one person, one vote'.

Engel v. Vitale

Ruling that schools cannot lead prayer, even if it is optional.

Gideon v. Wainwright

Established the right to a lawyer for those accused of a crime, regardless of their ability to pay.

Tinker v. Des Moines

Affirmed that students have free speech in school, as long as it’s not disruptive.

New York Times v. U.S.

Established that the government cannot censor the press unless it poses a serious danger.

Wisconsin v. Yoder

Allowed Amish families to avoid sending their children to school if it conflicted with their religious beliefs.

U.S. v. Lopez

Determined that Congress overstepped its authority with the Gun-Free School Zones Act.

Shaw v. Reno

Declared racial gerrymandering (drawing voting districts based on race) as unconstitutional.

McDonald v. Chicago

Required states to adhere to the 2nd Amendment, affirming the right to own guns.

Citizens United v. FEC

Allowed corporations and organizations to spend unlimited money on elections, equating it to free speech.

DC v. Heller

Affirmed individuals' right to own guns for personal use.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, protecting fundamental freedoms such as speech and religion.

1st Amendment

Guarantees freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

2nd Amendment

Protects the right to own guns.

3rd Amendment

Prohibits the quartering of soldiers in homes during peacetime.

4th Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures without a warrant.

5th Amendment

Ensures the right to remain silent, protects against double jeopardy, and guarantees due process.

6th Amendment

Guarantees the right to a speedy trial, legal counsel, and knowledge of charges.

7th Amendment

Assures the right to a jury trial in civil cases.

8th Amendment

Prohibits cruel punishments and excessive bail.

9th Amendment

Affirms that the people retain rights not specifically enumerated in the Constitution.

10th Amendment

Reserves powers not granted to the U.S. to the states or the people.

14th Amendment

Guarantees equal protection and due process for all citizens.

Selective Incorporation

The application of some rights in the Bill of Rights to states through the 14th Amendment.

Due Process

Legal requirement for the government to respect all legal rights owed to a person.

Procedural Due Process

Ensures fair legal proceedings before depriving a person of life, liberty, or property.

Affirmative Action

Programs aimed at helping groups that were historically discriminated against.

Civil Liberties

Basic freedoms that the government cannot infringe upon.

Civil Rights

Rights that protect individuals from discrimination.

Establishment Clause

Prohibits the government from establishing an official religion.

Free Exercise Clause

Protects individuals' rights to practice their religion.

Exclusionary Rule

Bars the use of illegally obtained evidence in court.

Civil Rights Act of 1964

A landmark law that banned discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, or origin.

Title IX (1972)

Mandates that schools treat men and women equally, particularly in education and sports.