Foundational Documents To Know for AP AP Gov (copy)

A Brilliant Solution

A book by Carol Berkin that details the debates and compromises involved in creating the U.S. Constitution.

Federalist 10

An essay by James Madison advocating for a large republic to manage the dangers of factions.

Brutus I

A document written by Anti-Federalists warning against the potential tyranny of a strong federal government.

Declaration of Independence

A foundational text asserting the inalienable rights of individuals and justifying revolution against oppressive governments.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the United States, creating a weak central government and highlighting the need for a stronger federal system.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual liberties and rights to citizens.

Federalist 51

An essay by James Madison that advocates for separation of powers to prevent government overreach.

Federalist 70

An essay by Alexander Hamilton that defends the need for a strong executive branch for effective governance.

Federalist 78

An essay by Alexander Hamilton that emphasizes the importance of an independent judiciary.

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

The landmark case that established judicial review.

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

A case affirming federal supremacy and expanding federal power through implied powers.

Schenck v. US (1919)

A case that limited free speech during wartime based on the 'clear and present danger' test.

Brown v. Board of Education (1954)

A pivotal case that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

Baker v. Carr (1961)

A case that allowed federal courts to intervene in redistricting cases.

Engel v. Vitale (1962)

A case prohibiting school-sponsored prayer, reinforcing the separation of church and state.

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

This case guaranteed the right to legal counsel in criminal cases.

Tinker v. Des Moines (1969)

A case that protected student free speech in schools.

New York Times Co. v. US (1971)

A case that strengthened freedom of the press by ruling against prior restraint.

Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)

A case prioritizing religious freedom over state education laws.

Roe v. Wade (1973)

A landmark decision that legalized abortion under the right to privacy.

Shaw v. Reno (1993)

A case addressing racial gerrymandering and enforcing strict scrutiny for race-based redistricting.

United States v. Lopez (1995)

A ruling that limited federal power under the Commerce Clause.

Citizens United v. FEC (2010)

A case that expanded corporate political spending rights, viewing it as protected speech.

McDonald v. Chicago (2010)

A case that incorporated the Second Amendment to the states, ensuring the right to bear arms is protected.