Foundational Documents Flashcards
What is the main point of Brutus I?
The US is too large to be a republic and poses a danger to state authority and individual liberties.
Focus on the ‘necessary and proper’ clause as well as the ‘supremacy’ clause. The potential for federal government overreach threatens civil liberties.
What does Federalist 10 argue?
A strong republic is better than factions, preventing the tyranny of oppression that factions will inevitably bring.
Emphasizes the dangers of factionalism in a large republic.
What are the main points of the Declaration of Independence?
Establishes three branches of government, protects natural rights, and opposes England.
Highlights the foundational principles of American democracy.
What characterizes the Article of Confederation?
Limited central government, state sovereignty, unicameral legislature, inability to enforce taxation or maintain a standing army.
Weaknesses were exposed by Shay’s Rebellion.
What is the main point of the Constitution?
Establishes three branches of power, organizes powers through federalism, and creates checks and balances as the Supreme Law.
A foundational document for US governance.
What does Federalist 51 advocate for?
Pro-separation of powers and pro-checks and balances; federalism helps prevent abuse of power.
Emphasizes the importance of institutional safeguards.
What is the main point of Federalist 70?
The executive branch should consist of one person to act quickly; legislative branch must act slowly.
Advocates for adequate power in each branch to prevent tyranny.
What argument does Federalist 78 present regarding the judiciary?
Defends lifetime appointments for justices to maintain impartiality and argues that judicial review strengthens the judiciary.
Highlights the role of the judiciary as the ‘weakest’ branch.
What is the duty of the oppressed according to ‘Letters from a Birmingham Jail’?
It is the duty of the oppressed to seek equality.
Segregation is deemed amoral, and white moderates are criticized for inaction.
What does the First Amendment protect?
Freedom of speech, religion, press, petition, and assembly.
Fundamental rights essential to democracy.
What does the Second Amendment guarantee?
The right to bear arms.
A significant aspect of American gun rights.
What does the Fourth Amendment require?
No search or seizure without a warrant.
Protects citizens’ privacy rights.
What rights does the Fifth Amendment ensure?
Due process rights.
Protects against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.
What is guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment?
The right to an attorney and a speedy trial.
Essential for fair legal representation.
What does the Eighth Amendment prohibit?
Cruel and unusual punishments.
A safeguard against inhumane treatment.
What does the Ninth Amendment state?
Reserves rights of citizens not specifically mentioned by the Constitution.
Acknowledges unenumerated rights.
What is the Tenth Amendment about?
Powers not granted by the Constitution are reserved for the states.
Emphasizes state sovereignty.
What does the Thirteenth Amendment accomplish?
Abolishes slavery except as punishment for a crime.
A landmark change in civil rights.
What rights are guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment?
Equal protection, due process, and citizenship.
A key amendment for civil rights.
What does the Fifteenth Amendment guarantee?
Suffrage for Black male citizens.
Important for voting rights.
What does the Eighteenth Amendment establish?
Prohibition.
A controversial period in US history.
What does the Nineteenth Amendment guarantee?
Women’s suffrage.
A milestone for gender equality in voting.
What does the Twenty-first Amendment do?
Repeals prohibition.
Ends the Eighteenth Amendment’s restrictions.
What does the Twenty-second Amendment establish?
Term limits for Presidents.
Prevents any President from serving more than two terms.
