Questions and Answers
What was the purpose of the Federalist Papers?
The Federalist Papers were written to convince the American people of the necessity of a stronger federal government and support the ratification of the Constitution.
Who were the authors of the Federalist Papers?
James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay
What argument does Federalist 39 make?
Federalist 39 argues that the new government is not strictly national, as it divides power among states, local municipalities, and the people.
With whom does it seem Madison wants government power to rest?
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How were U.S. Senators elected at the time of Madison's writing?
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Who were the Anti-Federalists? What did they believe in?
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What part of the Constitution did the Anti-Federalists give us?
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How did James Wilson believe the US government would generate revenue?
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What method did Cincinnatus believe the US government would eventually use to generate revenue?
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What is a progressive income tax? A flat tax?
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What was the overall argument made by Brutus in AF 84?
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Why did some consider the argument in AF 84 void? What does 'what is not granted is reserved' refer to?
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Who wrote Federalist 46?
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What was the purpose of Federalist 46?
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Is it realistic today to accept that states can repel threats from the federal government? Why or why not?
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Study Notes
Federalist Papers
- Aimed to persuade the public of the necessity for a stronger federal government and support for the Constitution's ratification.
- Addressed skepticism stemming from experiences under King George III, aiming to alleviate fears.
Authors
- Composed by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay.
Federalist 39 Argument
- Madison claimed the new government is national but maintains a division of powers among states, municipalities, and people.
- Advocated for a bicameral legislature and reelection requirements for representatives as a means of ensuring republican governance.
Government Power Distribution
- Madison sought to prevent concentrated power, encouraging distribution across branches of federal and state governments, and the populace.
Election of U.S. Senators
- Originally elected by state legislatures; currently elected directly by the people.
- Initial design aimed to ensure state representation, viewing the federal government as a voluntary union, not a single majority-ruled entity.
Anti-Federalists
- Skeptical group regarding the proposed Constitution, advocating for a government that enumerated rights alongside powers.
- Concerned about potential tyranny due to excessive governmental power post-Revolution.
Contribution of the Anti-Federalists
- Led to the establishment of the Bill of Rights, ensuring individual protections against government overreach.
Revenue Generation Beliefs
- James Wilson favored tariffs as the primary revenue source for the government.
- Cincinnatus predicted a shift to direct taxation of the populace.
Taxation Types
- Progressive income tax: Tax rate increases with higher income.
- Flat tax: Same tax rate applies to everyone, regardless of income level.
Brutus's Argument in AF 84
- Advocated for inclusion of a Bill of Rights in the national Constitution to prevent tyranny and protect individual rights.
Argument Against AF 84
- Some deemed a Bill of Rights unnecessary, as state constitutions already had such protections.
- "What is not granted is reserved" suggests powers not delegated to the federal government remain with the states.
Federalist 46 Author
- Written by James Madison.
Purpose of Federalist 46
- Aimed to reassure citizens that state and local governments would retain power despite the new Constitution.
Feasibility of States Repelling Federal Threats
- Generally considered unrealistic in modern contexts due to federal military superiority and advanced weaponry inaccessible to the general populace.
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Description
Test your knowledge with these flashcards covering key concepts from American Government, particularly focusing on the Federalist Papers and their significance in the ratification of the Constitution. Prepare for Exam 2 by mastering the critical ideas that shaped the nation.