Foundational Documents
This document declares the colonies' independence from British rule.
The Declaration of Independence
This case established the principle of implied powers through the Necessary and Proper Clause.
McCulloch v. Maryland
This paper argues for the benefits of a large republic and the dangers of factions.
Federalist 10
This principle divides government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.
Separation of Powers
Aka: the supreme law of the land
Constitution
This document served as the first constitution of the United States but was ultimately replaced.
Articles of Confederation
This case limited Congress's ability to regulate interstate commerce.
US v. Lopez
This paper criticizes the proposed Constitution and warns against a strong central government.
Brutus 1
This is the principle that ensures that powers not delegated to the federal government are given to the states.
Reserved Powers
A system that ensures no branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the others.
Checks and Balances
This document outlines the fundamental rights guaranteed to individuals in the United States.
Bill of Rights
This case ruled that money spent by corporations in political campaigns is a form of protected speech.
Citizens United v. FEC
This paper discusses the importance of checks and balances within the government.
Federalist 51
This principle allows for flexibility in the Constitution to adapt to changing times and circumstances.
Elastic Clause or Necessary and Proper Clause
This term refers to the division of powers between the national and state governments.
Federalism
This section of the U.S. Constitution deals with the legislative branch.
Article 1
This case addressed the issue of legislative apportionment and the "one person, one vote" principle.
Baker v. Carr
This paper advocates for the energy in the executive branch.
Federalist 70
This clause in Article 1 establishes congressional authority to regulate any businesses that cross state boundaries.
Commerce Clause
Considered the "Father of the Constitution" for his pivotal role in its drafting
James Madison
This document is a collection of essays advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, authored by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay.
Federalist Papers
This case determined that redistricting based on race must be held to a standard of strict scrutiny.
Shaw v. Reno
This paper emphasizes the need for a strong central authority in the government.
Federalist 70
This is the concept that the government is created by and receives its power from the consent of the governed.
Popular Sovereignty
Where in the Constitution is the amendment process found?
Article V