Foundational Documents Organizer: Brutus 1 and Related Constitutional Concepts

Vocabulary flashcards covering Brutus 1, Anti-Federalist vs Federalist ideas, Confederated Government concepts, and key constitutional clauses (Necessary and Proper/Elastic, Supremacy).

Brutus 1

Anti-Federalist essay opposing ratification; argues that a strong central government would erode state sovereignty and threaten liberty by concentrating power in Congress and federal courts.

Anti-Federalist

Opponent of ratification who favored states' rights and feared the Constitution would expand federal power at the expense of liberty.

Federalist Papers

Essays supporting ratification and a strong national government; written to persuade the public.

Confederated Government

A government where states retain most power and the central government is weak; exemplified by the Articles of Confederation.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Gives Congress the power to make laws needed to execute its enumerated powers; expands federal legislative authority.

Elastic Clause

Another name for the Necessary and Proper Clause; allows expansion of congressional power beyond enumerated powers.

Supremacy Clause

Declares that federal law is the supreme law of the land, overruling conflicting state laws.

Federal Courts vs. State Courts

Brutus warned that federal courts could override state courts, diminishing state sovereignty.

Ratification

The process of officially approving the Constitution; central debate between Federalists and Anti-Federalists.

AoC (Articles of Confederation)

The first U.S. constitution; established a confederated government with weak central authority.

Taxes and Tyranny Concern

Fear that giving Congress the power to tax would lead to tyranny and oppression.

Army Power

Concern that the federal power to raise armies could threaten individual liberty.