AP Government Exam: Foundational Documents Overview

What was the primary purpose of the Federalist Papers?

• To advocate for the ratification of the new constitution

• To oppose the ratification of the new constitution

• To introduce the concept of federalism

• To advocate for the abolition of the Articles of Confederation

According to Madison in Federalist No. 10, what is inevitable in society?

• The rise of a single dominant faction

• The abolition of all factions

• The rise of factions

• The unification of all factions

What concept does Madison associate with the inevitability of factions?

• Pluralism

• Oligarchy

• Tyranny

• Monarchy

What does Federalist No. 51 advocate for to prevent any one branch from dominating?

• A direct democracy

• A single executive leader

• The elimination of the judicial branch

• Checks and balances

According to Federalist No. 51, what is necessary if men were angels?

• No government would be necessary

• A direct democracy

• A stronger executive branch

• Fewer checks and balances

Why does Hamilton argue for a strong executive leader in Federalist No. 70?

• To ensure rapid decision-making

• To eliminate the legislative branch

• To promote a council-based leadership

• To reduce the power of the judiciary

What does Hamilton argue is a benefit of a single executive in Federalist No. 70?

• Enhanced state sovereignty

• Increased legislative power

• Greater accountability

• Decreased federal power

What is the main argument of Federalist No. 78?

• The importance of a plural executive

• The judicial branch being the least dangerous

• The necessity of a strong legislative branch

• The need for a large republic

Why does Federalist No. 78 argue for lifetime tenure for judges?

• To weaken the judiciary

• To promote frequent turnover

• To increase executive control

• To ensure judicial independence

What concern does Brutus No. 1 express about the new constitution?

• It gives too much power to the federal government

• It advocates for a monarchy

• It eliminates the need for states

• It supports the idea of a large republic