Foundational Documents
This document, written in 1776, declared the American colonies’ independence from Britain
What is the Declaration of Independence?
This principle means government gets its power from the people.
What is popular sovereignty
This principle allows courts to strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
What is judicial review?
This document begins with “We the People” and established the framework of the U.S. government.
What is the United States Constitution?
This principle limits government power so it cannot become too strong or abusive.
What is limited government?
This Supreme Court case strengthened national power by ruling that Congress could use implied powers under the Necessary and Proper Clause.
What is McCulloch v. Maryland?
This document created a weak national government with no executive or judicial branch.
What are the Articles of Confederation?
This system divides government power between national and state governments.
What is federalism?
This Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review.
What is Marbury v. Madison?
This essay argued that the Constitution would create a national government too powerful, threatening state sovereignty and individual liberties
What is Brutus No. 1?
This principle separates government into legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
What is separation of powers?
This idea says that the Constitution is the highest authority in the United States legal system.
What is constitutional supremacy?
This essay argues that a large republic helps control factions.
What is Federalist No. 10?
This system allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches.
What are checks and balances?
This doctrine established that federal law is the “supreme law of the land” over state laws.
What is the Supremacy Clause?