Required documents for apgov

Term Definition
Articles of Confederation (AOC) The first U.S. government that created a loose alliance of states with a weak national government. Congress had no power to tax, no executive branch, and no national army. Main idea: Showed the problems of decentralized power and led to the need for a stronger federal government.
Federalist No. 10 Written by James Madison. Argued that factions (interest groups) are inevitable but can be controlled by a large republic with many competing interests. Main idea: A large republic prevents tyranny of the majority through pluralism.
Federalist No. 51 Written by James Madison. Explained that separation of powers and checks and balances protect liberty and prevent tyranny. Main idea: Each branch should check the others to keep power balanced and government accountable.
Federalist No. 70 Written by Alexander Hamilton. Argued for a single, energetic executive for effective and decisive leadership. Main idea: One strong president ensures accountability and quick action in crises.
Federalist No. 78 Written by Alexander Hamilton. Defended an independent judiciary with life tenure to protect the Constitution and individual rights. Main idea: The courts are the weakest branch but need judicial review to strike down unconstitutional laws.
Brutus No. 1 Written by an Anti-Federalist (likely Robert Yates). Warned that the new Constitution gave too much power to the federal government and would weaken the states. Main idea: A large republic would lead to corruption and loss of individual and state rights.