Dooley US Government

Chapter Overview

Introduction: The Origins of American Democracy

  • Exploring the influences of ancient and modern political theorists on the Framers of the U.S. Constitution.

  • Emphasis on how the American experiment in representative government ignited democratic movements worldwide.

  • The need to understand the American government as a reference point for evaluating other democracies and nondemocracies.

Key Questions to Consider

  1. Why is the term democracy not included in the U.S. Constitution?

    • The term democracy was associated with mob rule. The Framers preferred the term republic to avoid negative connotations.

  2. What British Acts inspired the American colonists?

    • Acts like the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts contributed to colonial unrest and calls for independence.

  3. Why did the Articles of Confederation fail?

    • Lack of a strong national government, inability to levy taxes, and weaknesses exposed during crises such as Shays's Rebellion.

  4. Impact of the Voting Rights Act on African American voter turnout in 2016?

    • Key provisions struck down in 2013 affected accessibility and turnout.

  5. Who authored the Federalist Papers and their purpose?

    • Written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay to advocate for ratification of the Constitution.

  6. Supreme Court's expansion of federal power in McCulloch V. Maryland (1819)?

    • Set precedent for federal authority over state laws.

  7. Contribution of Federalist Paper No. 10 to democratic theory?

    • Addresses the dangers of majority rule and advocates for a system that controls factions.

  8. Relevance of 18th-century Constitution in the 21st century?

    • Ongoing debates about constitutional interpretation and adaptability.

The Articles of Confederation: The Failed Experiment

  • The Articles (1781-87) were America's first constitution but proved ineffective.

  • Lacked executive and judicial branches; power rested mainly with states.

  • Criticized for inability to fund the Revolutionary War effort and enforce laws.

Influence of Political Philosophers

  • John Locke’s Two Treatises of Government:

    • Advocated for limited government that protects natural rights; significantly influenced the Framers.

  • Major Titling Issue:

    • Articles of Confederation seen as a weak