Heimler's History: Federalist 51 Overview

Introduction

• Continuation on foundational documents for AP Government.
• Focus on Federalist 51, written by James Madison.

Central Thesis

• Human Nature & Government:
  • Government is a reflection of human nature.
  • If humans were like angels, no government would be needed.
  • Government needed because humans are not angels; they are inherently selfish.

Purpose of Government

• Protect liberty of the people.
• Balance of power: Must protect liberty but not destroy it.

Key Question

• How to create a government that is powerful enough to protect but not too powerful to destroy liberty?

Madison’s Solution

• Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances:
  • Government must be structured internally to ensure each part checks the others.
  • Each government branch should have its own will and independence.
  • Balance and check power internally without external imposition.

Structure of Government

• Branches Independence:
  • Each branch should have as little influence as possible over the appointment of others.
  • Power should be basically equal among the three branches.

Legislative Branch

• Disproportionate power given to Congress.
• Congress represents the voice of the people.
• Solution: Divide Congress into two branches (bicameral legislature: House and Senate).

Further Division of Power

• Compound Republic:
  • Power divided between two governments (national and state).
  • Federalism: Division of powers between national and state governments.

Checks and Balances

• Examples:
  • Executive can veto legislative laws.
  • Legislative can impeach the executive.
  • Judicial can rule on the constitutionality of laws and actions.
• Purpose: Double security for liberty by checking each other’s power.

Dangers of Factions

• More factions mean less domination by any single faction.
• Ambition must counteract ambition.
• Government and people seek to preserve their own interests.
• Conclusion: Set ambitions against each other to avoid tyranny.

Conclusion

• Compromise and concession necessary to achieve governance.
• Protection of liberty through structured ambition and power division.

Additional Resources

• More foundational documents videos available.
• View packet available for further study and exam preparation.
• Videos on Unit 1 content for more in-depth understanding.