Amendments and Federalist Papers

15th Amendment

Prohibits the denial of the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude

17th Amendment

Provides for the direct election of U.S. Senators by popular vote

19th Amendment

granted woman the right to vote

24th Amendment

Prohibits the use of poll taxes in federal elections. With the Voting Rights Act, aimed at removing structural barriers for African Americans to vote.

26th Amendment

Sets the minimum voting age to 18

Federalist No. 10

argues in support of the Constitution that a large republic is better suited to control the effects of factions than a small democracy. It relates to the concepts of republicanism, representation, and the dangers of majority tyranny.

Federalist No. 51

argues for the system of checks and balances and separation of powers to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. It relates to the core concepts of limited government, constitutional design, and the prevention of tyranny.

Federalist No. 70

argues for a strong, unitary executive branch led by a single president rather than a plural executive. It connects to discussions about the structure of the executive branch, presidential power, and effective governance.

Federalist No. 78

argues for an independent judiciary with the power of judicial review. It relates to the concepts of checks and balances, the role of the judiciary in interpreting the Constitution, and the importance of an independent court system.

Brutus No. 1

argues against the proposed Constitution, claiming it would lead to a consolidation of power in the national government at the expense of the states. It connects to debates about federalism, the proper balance of power between state and national governments, and concerns about individual liberty.