Understanding U.S. Foundational Documents and Political Theories

What are the three main ideas emphasized in the Declaration of Independence?

• Federalism, checks and balances, judicial review

• Executive power, legislative authority, judicial independence

• Liberty, equality, fraternity

• Natural rights, popular sovereignty, social contract

What principle does the social contract in the Declaration of Independence describe?

• The government's role in protecting citizens' rights

• The need for a strong military

• The establishment of religion in governance

• The division of powers between states

Why did the states intentionally create a weak national government under the Articles of Confederation?

• To enhance trade regulations

• To maintain state sovereignty and power

• To strengthen the national military

• To prepare for a stronger federal government

What was Brutus No. 1's main argument against the new Constitution?

• It reduced the powers of the presidency

• It encouraged democratic principles

• It abolished the need for state governments

• It provided too much power to the national government

What does the Necessary and Proper Clause allow according to Brutus?

• State independence

• Judicial review

• Unlimited legislative power

• Limited taxation

What does the Supremacy Clause establish?

• Federal laws override state laws

• State laws override federal laws

• Judicial power over legislative actions

• Equal power between state and federal governments

According to Madison in Federalist No. 10, what is the best way to control the negative effects of factions?

• Eliminating factions entirely

• Creating a large republic

• Promoting a single-party system

• Reducing public participation in government

How does Madison propose to protect minority rights in a large republic?

• By limiting voting rights

• By encouraging factionalism

• By diluting majority power through many factions

• By appointing non-elected officials

What does Madison argue is necessary to control the government in Federalist No. 51?

• A strong executive leader

• A centralized government

• Separation of powers and checks and balances

• Elimination of the judicial branch

Why does Hamilton support a unitary executive in Federalist No. 70?

• To limit public influence on government

• To ensure faster decision-making in crises

• To prevent corruption

• To promote state governance