what i dont know ap gov

What is the main purpose of Federalist 51?

To explain how the Constitution’s structure — separation of powers and checks and balances — prevents tyranny and protects liberty.

What does “ambition must be made to counteract ambition” mean?

Each branch’s desire for power keeps the others in check — human self-interest actually maintains balance.

What is the “great difficulty” Madison identifies?

Creating a government strong enough to govern effectively but limited enough to protect individual liberty.

What is “double security”?

Power is divided between national and state governments, and again among branches — this is federalism and separation of powers combined.

What is an example of federalism in the Constitution?

Article V — Amendment Process. Requires both federal (Congress) and state (state legislatures) approval → shared power between levels.

What is an example of separation of powers?

Article I → Congress makes laws; Article II → President enforces laws; Article III → Courts interpret laws.

What are two enumerated powers of Congress (Article I)?

Power to tax and power to declare war (you can also mention regulate commerce or coin money).

What feature of the Constitution limits state power?

States can’t declare war or make treaties — only the federal government can, keeping foreign policy unified.

What does Madison say is the best protection for liberty?

A system where power is divided and each branch and level of government checks the others.

How does bicameralism limit power?

It splits lawmaking between House and Senate, forcing compromise and preventing hasty or tyrannical laws.

What are three features of the Constitution that prevent tyranny?

Separation of Powers

Checks and Balances

Federalism

How does Federalist 51 justify checks and balances?

It argues that since humans seek power (“ambition”), each branch must have the means and motivation to limit the others — this keeps government self-controlled.

What is the primary control on government according to Madison?

Dependence on the people — ultimately, voters hold power through elections.

What is the secondary control on government (“auxiliary precautions”)?

The internal system of checks and balances that prevents abuse of power within government itself.

Full Faith and Credit Clause

States must recognize the public records, acts, and judicial rulings of other states (e.g., marriages, licenses).

Privileges and Immunities Clause

States can’t discriminate against citizens from other states; people get equal treatment when traveling or moving.

Commerce Clause

Congress has power to regulate trade between states and with foreign nations.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Congress can make all laws needed to carry out its listed powers.

Elastic Clause

Another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause (it “stretches” Congress’s power).

Article 5

Explains how to amend the Constitution: 2/3 Congress proposes → 3/4 states ratify.

Article 7

Explains ratification: 9/13 states needed for Constitution to take effect.

Habeas Corpus

Court order requiring gov’t to tell why someone is detained. Can only be suspended in rebellion/invasion.

Great Compromise

2-house Congress: House = population, Senate = 2 per state.

Ratifying an amendment

3/4 of states must approve.

What can the Judicial Branch do to check the Legislative Branch?

Declare laws unconstitutional (judicial review)

What can the Legislative Branch do to check the Judicial Branch?

Confirm or reject judicial appointments

Impeach and remove judges