FCLE Flashcards — Founding Documents

Vocabulary flashcards covering key historical documents, essays, and pamphlets related to the founding of the United States.

Declaration of Independence (1776)

Declared independence from Britain and promoted natural rights and government by consent.

Massachusetts Constitution (1780)

John Adams's constitution emphasizing separation of powers and rule of law.

Northwest Ordinances (1784, 1785, 1787)

Created processes for governing territories and admitting new states.

Federalist Papers

Essays by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay supporting ratification of the Constitution.

Federalist No. 10

Madison argued large republics can better control factions.

Federalist No. 51

Madison explained how separation of powers and checks and balances protect liberty.

Federalist No. 70

Hamilton argued a strong single President is more effective.

Federalist No. 78

Hamilton explained the judiciary and judicial review.

Magna Carta (1215)

Limited royal power and established that rulers must obey the law.

Mayflower Compact (1620)

Established self-government through consent of the governed and majority rule.

English Bill of Rights (1689)

Limited monarchy and protected rights, influencing American founding documents.

Common Sense (1776)

Thomas Paine's pamphlet encouraging independence and colonial self-government.