Federalist Papers

Question 1

Federalist 78

Answer 1

Need an independent federal judiciary to protect against majoritarianism and other branches

Question 2

Federalist 81

Answer 2

Independent federal judiciary is needed for federal questions to protect against bias and provide finality in decisions

Question 3

Federalist 51

Answer 3

Ambition must be made to counteract ambition—works like hydraulic pressure so government officials will work to guard their own powers and push back against others’

Question 4

Federalist 39

Answer 4

(You’re not mine) The Madisonian check means the people can vote elected officials out of office, which restrains federal power (and nullifies any need for a Bill of Rights)

Question 5

Federalist 84

Answer 5

(Don’t need no more) Written Constitution should be enough; no need for Bill of Rights

Question 6

Federalist 47

Answer 6

Without separation of powers and hydraulic pressure, branches will infinitely expand their own powers

Question 7

Federalist 48

Answer 7

(Restraint is great) Separation of powers doesn’t have to be total, but there should be constitutional restraints on each branch

Question 8

Federalist 49

Answer 8

(People confine, that’s by design) People are the only legitimate fountain of power (Jefferson); it should be rare for them to correct the Constitution—they have other means of redressing grievances

Question 9

Federalist 67

Answer 9

No need to worry about an overly strong executive; he’s not a monarch and the people will motivate him to adhere to their interests

Question 10

Federalist 68

Answer 10

(EC will designate) While it’s good for the people to vote, they should indicate those preferences through an Electoral College which can discern those desires and vote on their behalf

Question 11

Federalist 69

Answer 11

(He’s not divine) Constitutional limits means the President is difference from a king

Question 12

Federalists 70-77

Answer 12

(Protection against rebellion) Written post-Shays’ Rebellion; need for an energetic executive to protect against mob rule and allow him to carry out his duties

Question 13

Federalist 21

Answer 13

Three main problems with the Articles of Confederation:
1. No mutual guarantee between states
2. Federal government can’t raise money
3. Voluntary contributions don’t work (defense)

Question 14

Federalist 22

Answer 14

Six main criticisms of the Articles of Confederation:
1. No commerce powers
2. No foreign affairs power
3. No structure or proportionate representation
4. No power to raise armies
5. No federal judiciary
6. Constitution should be ratified by the states