Unit 3

đź“ś Foundational Documents & Essays

  • Articles of Confederation: First U.S. government plan. Too weak—no president, no power to tax.

  • Brutus 1: Anti-Federalist paper warning that a strong national government would take away people’s rights.

  • Declaration of Independence: Document saying the U.S. was breaking away from Britain. All people have rights.

  • Federalist 10: Madison argues that a large republic helps control “factions” (groups that can cause problems).

  • Federalist 51: Explains checks and balances and separation of powers so no branch gets too strong.

  • Federalist 70: Hamilton says the U.S. needs a strong, single president for quick decision-making.

  • Federalist 78: Hamilton says judges should be independent and courts can strike down bad laws (judicial review).

  • MLK’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail”: MLK defends peaceful protests against unjust segregation laws.

âš– Supreme Court Cases

  • Marbury v. Madison: Created judicial review – courts can cancel laws that go against the Constitution.

  • McCulloch v. Maryland: National government is stronger than states; Congress has implied powers.

  • Schenck v. U.S.: Speech can be limited if it creates a “clear and present danger”.

  • Brown v. Board (1954): Ended school segregation – “separate but equal” is not okay.

  • Baker v. Carr: Said courts can hear cases about unfair voting districts – “one person, one vote.”

  • Engel v. Vitale: Schools can’t lead prayer, even if it’s optional.

  • Gideon v. Wainwright: If you’re accused of a crime, you get a lawyer, even if you can’t pay.

  • Tinker v. Des Moines: Students have free speech (like wearing armbands) in school if it’s not disruptive.

  • New York Times v. U.S.: Government can’t censor the press unless it causes serious danger.

  • Wisconsin v. Yoder: Amish families don’t have to send kids to school if it goes against their religion.

  • U.S. v. Lopez: Congress went too far with the Gun-Free School Zones Act – limited power under Commerce Clause.

  • Shaw v. Reno: Racial gerrymandering (drawing voting districts based on race) is not okay.

  • McDonald v. Chicago: States must follow the 2nd Amendment (right to own guns).

  • Citizens United v. FEC: Corporations and groups can spend unlimited money on elections (free speech).

  • DC v. Heller: People have the right to own guns for personal use.

🇺🇸 Amendments & Constitutional Principles

  • Bill of Rights: First 10 amendments. Protects freedoms like speech, religion, and fair trials.

  • 1st Amendment: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

  • 2nd Amendment: Right to own guns.

  • 3rd Amendment: No soldiers in your home during peace time.

  • 4th Amendment: No searches without a warrant or reason.

  • 5th Amendment: Right to remain silent, no double jeopardy, due process.

  • 6th Amendment: Right to a speedy trial, a lawyer, and to know your charges.

  • 7th Amendment: Right to a jury in civil (money-related) cases.

  • 8th Amendment: No cruel or unfair punishments or super high bail.

  • 9th Amendment: People have other rights, even if they’re not listed.

  • 10th Amendment: Powers not given to the U.S. go to the states or people.

  • 14th Amendment: All citizens get equal protection and due process under the law.

  • Selective Incorporation: Some rights in the Bill of Rights apply to states, not just the federal government.

  • Due Process: The government must treat people fairly when it takes away life, liberty, or property.

  • Procedural Due Process: The government must follow fair steps (like giving you a trial).

âš– Civil Rights & Liberties

  • Affirmative Action: Programs that help groups that were treated unfairly in the past (like in college admissions).

  • Civil Liberties: Freedoms the government can’t take away (like speech and religion).

  • Civil Rights: Rights that protect people from unfair treatment (like based on race or gender).

  • Establishment Clause: Government can’t create or support a religion.

  • Free Exercise Clause: People can practice their religion freely.

  • Exclusionary Rule: If police get evidence illegally, it can’t be used in court.

đź“š Key Laws

  • Civil Rights Act of 1964: Banned discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, or origin.

  • Title IX (1972): Schools must treat boys and girls equally, especially in sports.