9 Foundational Documents

Fed 10

An essay by James Madison, part of The Federalist Papers, that argues for the importance of a strong central government to control factions and prevent the tyranny of the majority.

Fed 51

An essay by James Madison that discusses the need for checks and balances in government to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power, ensuring a separation of powers.

Fed 70

An essay by Alexander Hamilton that advocates for a strong executive leader to ensure energy and decisiveness in the government, arguing that a single executive is more effective than a plural executive.

Fed 78

An essay by Alexander Hamilton that discusses the power of judicial review, emphasizing the judiciary's role in protecting the Constitution and ensuring the law is upheld against legislative encroachments.

Brutus 1

An essay that opposes the proposed Constitution, arguing that it creates a strong central government that may infringe on individual liberties and states' rights.

Declaration of Independence

A document adopted in 1776, declaring the American colonies independent from Britain and outlining their grievances against British rule.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the United States, established in 1781, which created a weak central government and ultimately proved ineffective, leading to its replacement by the current Constitution.

United States Constitution

The supreme law of the United States, established in 1787, which outlines the framework of the government and the rights of the citizens.

MLK’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”

A letter written by Martin Luther King Jr. in 1963, addressing the issues of civil rights, justice, and nonviolent protest while responding to criticism from local clergy.