Federalist Papers No. 51, 70 and 78 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What did Federalist Paper 51 support?

It defended the checks and balances system in the constitution.

Who wrote Federalist Paper 51?

James Madison.

What are Checks and Balances?

A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches in order to prevent abuse of power.

What power would people have according to Federalist Paper 51?

The branches put into place in the government would be dependent on the people. Signup and view all the answers

In Federalist Paper 70, why is a strong executive branch needed?

To protect, administer laws, protect property & justice, and to secure liberty. Signup and view all the answers

Who wrote Federalist Paper 70?

Alexander Hamilton. Signup and view all the answers

In Federalist 70, how does it describe The Articles of Confederation?

As having a weak executive government. Signup and view all the answers

What did Hamilton say about having a single executive government?

It's far more safe; whenever two or more people are engaged in a common pursuit, there is a danger of different opinions which causes nothing to happen/no progress. Signup and view all the answers

Who wrote Federalist Paper 78?

Alexander Hamilton. Signup and view all the answers

What type of Judicial branch does Federalist Paper 78 support?

An Independent Judicial Branch. Signup and view all the answers

How do we know the Justices on the Supreme Court will be fair?

Justices will serve life terms; Justice will be appointed to their seats. Signup and view all the answers

How powerful are the Justices?

They lack the ability to enforce laws; Justices can only interpret laws. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Federalist Paper 51

Supports the system of checks and balances within the Constitution, ensuring that no branch of government becomes too powerful.
Authored by James Madison, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining individual liberties against potential government overreach.
Advocates that government branches should rely on the will of the people, highlighting the importance of public consent in governance.

Federalist Paper 70

Argues for a strong executive branch to effectively protect the country, administer laws, uphold property rights, and secure liberty.
Written by Alexander Hamilton, who critiques the inefficiencies of a plural executive.
Describes the Articles of Confederation as having a weak executive, insufficient for a cohesive and effective government.
Emphasizes that a single executive is safer due to the potential for conflict when multiple individuals are involved in decision-making processes.

Federalist Paper 78

Advocates for an independent judicial branch, crucial for the protection of constitutional principles and individual rights.
Also authored by Alexander Hamilton, who argues that the judiciary must be insulated from political pressures.
Ensures that justices serve life terms to promote fairness and continuity in the judiciary.
Justices possess interpretative power over laws but lack enforcement capabilities, underscoring their role as neutral arbiters rather than active enforcers.

Description

This quiz features flashcards covering essential concepts from Federalist Papers No. 51, 70, and 78. Test your knowledge on the key ideas such as checks and balances and the authors of these foundational texts, particularly focusing on James Madison's contributions. Perfect for students studying American government and political philosophy.