Foundational Documents To Know for AP AP Gov (copy)

Federalist 10

Written by James Madison, it advocates for a large republic to manage factions and protect minority rights.

Brutus I

An Anti-Federalist paper warning against the dangers of a strong federal government, advocating for a Bill of Rights.

Declaration of Independence

A document asserting inalienable rights and justifying revolution against governments that fail to protect these rights.

Articles of Confederation

The original governing document of the USA, which created a weak central government and highlighted the need for a stronger federal structure.

Federalist 51

Madison’s argument for separation of powers within the government to prevent tyranny and protect individual freedoms.

Federalist 70

Hamilton's defense of a strong, single executive for efficient governance and accountability.

Federalist 78

Hamilton’s description of the judiciary as independent and essential for upholding the Constitution.

Marbury v. Madison

The 1803 case establishing judicial review, allowing the judiciary to strike down unconstitutional laws.

McCulloch v. Maryland

The 1819 case affirming federal supremacy and the use of implied powers to create a national bank.

Schenck v. US

The 1919 case that limited free speech during wartime under the 'clear and present danger' test.

Brown v. Board of Education

The 1954 case declaring that racial segregation in public schools is inherently unequal and unconstitutional.

Baker v. Carr

The 1961 case enabling federal courts to intervene in redistricting, establishing the 'one person, one vote' principle.

Engel v. Vitale

The 1962 case prohibiting school-sponsored prayer, reinforcing the separation of church and state.

Gideon v. Wainwright

The 1963 case guaranteeing the right to legal counsel for defendants in state courts.

Tinker v. Des Moines

The 1969 case protecting student free speech in schools, allowing symbolic protest.

New York Times Co. v. US

The 1971 case strengthening freedom of the press by ruling against prior restraint.

Wisconsin v. Yoder

The 1972 case prioritizing religious freedom over compulsory school attendance laws.

Roe v. Wade

The 1973 case legalizing abortion under the right to privacy.

Shaw v. Reno

The 1993 case prohibiting racial gerrymandering and requiring strict scrutiny in redistricting.

United States v. Lopez

The 1995 case limiting federal power under the Commerce Clause regarding non-economic activities.

Citizens United v. FEC

The 2010 case expanding corporate political spending rights as protected free speech.

McDonald v. Chicago

The 2010 case incorporating the Second Amendment to the states, ensuring the right to bear arms.