Foundational Documents

Question 1

Declaration of Independence (1776)

Answer 1

• agrees that all people have natural rights (life, liberty, pursuit of happiness)
• government derives power from consent of the governed
• if a government is tyrannical, the people have the right to overthrow it

Question 2

Articles of Confederation (1781)

Answer 2

• first US government framework; emphasized state sovereignty
• weak national government: no power to tax, no executive, no judicial branch
• failed to unify states effectively or respond to national issues (ex: Shays’ Rebellion)

Question 3

US Constitution (1787)

Answer 3

• replaced the Articles; created a stronger central government
• established separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism
• includes Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties

Question 4

Federalist 10 (James Madison)

Answer 4

• factions are inevitable, but a large republic can control their effects
• a diverse, large republic dilutes the power of any one faction

Question 5

Federalist 51 (James Madison)

Answer 5

• separation of powers and checks and balances protect against tyranny

Question 6

Federalist 70 (Alexander Hamilton)

Answer 6

• a single, energetic executive is necessary for good government
• a strong president ensures accountability and decisive leadership

Question 7

Federalist 78 (Alexander Hamilton)

Answer 7

• supports an independent judiciary with life tenure
• courts should have the power of judicial review to protect and uphold the Constitution

Question 8

Brutus 1 (Anti-Federalist)

Answer 8

• oppose the Constitution; fears a strong central government will infringe on liberties
• argues a large republic can’t represent the people effectively

Question 9

Letter from Birmingham Jail (MLK)

Answer 9

• defends nonviolent protest against unjust laws
• moral obligation to challenge injustice; appeals to natural rights and constitutional principles