Foundational Documents To Know for AP Gov

LOCK IN

Declaration of Independence

Document asserting inalienable rights and justifying revolution against oppressive governments.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the U.S., creating a weak central government.

The Constitution of the United States

Create a stronger national structure- Separation of powers; checks and balances; federalism; enumerated powers; amendment process; republicanism

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution guaranteeing individual liberties.

Federalist 10

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

Brutus I

An Anti-Federalist paper warning against the dangers of a powerful federal government.

Federalist 51

Written by James Madison, it advocates for checks and balances and separation of powers.

Federalist 70

Written by Alexander Hamilton, it defends a strong single executive for effective governance.

Federalist 78

Describes the Judiciary as the least dangerous branch with the importance of judicial independence.

Letter from a Birmingham Jail

Defending nonviolent direct action against segregation, arguing that citizens have a moral duty to break unjust laws

Majoritarian Tyranny

The risk that a majority faction may infringe on the rights of minority groups.

Separation of Powers

Dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.

Checks and Balances

A system ensuring that no single branch of government dominates the others.

Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause)

Allows Congress to pass laws necessary to carry out its enumerated powers.