Req Docs

Front

Declaration of Independence

Back

Lays foundation of natural rights. Makes argument for independence from Great Britain. States intention to base US government on limited government, popular sovereignty, consent of the governed, republicanism & social contract.

Front

Articles of Confederation

Back

1st Constitution that failed. Represented need for greater centralization of power in government. States had most of the power, not the national government.

Front

US Constitution

Back

Establishes US government structure. Major principles include: popular sovereignty, consent of the governed, limited government, federalism, checks and balances, and separation of powers.

Front

Federalist, No.10

Back

Argument FOR the ratification of the Constitution. Argues for the superiority of a large republic in controlling the 'mischiefs of faction,' delegating authority to elected representatives and dispersing power between states and national government. Republic is better than Democracy in a large nation.

Front

Brutus, No. 1

Back

Argument AGAINST the ratification of the Constitution. Emphasized the benefits of a small decentralized republic. Argues that the Constitution threatens the sovereignty of the states.

Front

Federalist, No 51

Back

Argument FOR the ratification of the Constitution. Argues that separation of powers guards against tyranny. Argues for a bicameral legislature ensures that the legislative branch doesn't dominate within the system of checks and balances. Each branch is dependent upon the people.

Front

Federalist, No 70

Back

Argument FOR the ratification of the Constitution. Argues that a one person executive (president) ensures unity and accountability.

Front

Federalist, No 78

Back

Argument FOR the ratification of the Constitution. Argues that the judicial branch being independent is essential to securing liberties. Argues that judges serving for life ensures a judicial branch free from legislative interference and politics. Argues for the idea of judicial review (solidified with Marbury v. Madison in 1803).

Front

Letter from a Birmingham Jail

Back

Explains King's reasoning and argument for the civil rights movement and their tactics (nonviolence). Explains the urgency of direct (immediate) action. Arguments for the Civil Rights Movement centered on the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.