FCLEPractice

Topic 13 · Competency 3: Founding Documents

The Federalist Papers and the Anti-Federalists: Practice Questions

129 practice questions on the Federalist essays most often tested (Nos. 10, 14, 31, 39, 51, and more) and Brutus No. 1. Answers are hidden until you click "Show answer."

Take the 10-question topic quiz Read the lesson Quiz on all 129 Printable worksheet

Original practice questions written to the FCLE competencies, not actual exam items.

Federalist No. 31 (Hamilton): The Power of Taxation (7)

Read this section →

  1. Use the excerpt below, from Federalist No. 31, to answer the question that follows.

    "A government ought to contain in itself every power requisite to the full accomplishment of the objects committed to its care... free from every other control but a regard to the public good and to the sense of the people."

    Which principle is most directly reflected in the excerpt?

    1. natural rights
    2. limits on slavery
    3. representative government
    4. giving the national government every power needed to carry out its responsibilities
    Show answer

    D. giving the national government every power needed to carry out its responsibilities: Hamilton argues that a government should have every power needed to accomplish the duties entrusted to it, the premise he used to defend a general federal power of taxation.

  2. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "A government ought to contain in itself every power requisite to the full accomplishment of the objects committed to its care... free from every other control but a regard to the public good and to the sense of the people."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 31
    2. Federalist No. 84
    3. Federalist No. 70
    4. Federalist No. 14
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 31: This passage is from Federalist No. 31.

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 31, which argued that the national government needs a general power of taxation?

    1. Thomas Jefferson
    2. Patrick Henry
    3. Alexander Hamilton
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    C. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 31 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  4. Federalist No. 31 argued that the national government needed

    1. a hereditary executive
    2. the power to abolish state governments
    3. a national church
    4. a general power to raise revenue through taxation
    Show answer

    D. a general power to raise revenue through taxation: Hamilton argued the government must be able to fund its duties.

  5. Which Federalist essay argued that the national government needs a general power of taxation?

    1. Federalist No. 10
    2. Federalist No. 84
    3. Federalist No. 31
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 31: Federalist No. 31 (Alexander Hamilton) argued that the national government needs a general power of taxation.

  6. Federalist No. 31, written by Hamilton, focuses on

    1. judicial review.
    2. the Electoral College.
    3. the dangers of a standing army.
    4. the national government's need for a general power of taxation.
    Show answer

    D. the national government's need for a general power of taxation.: Hamilton argued that a government must have means proportional to its responsibilities.

  7. In Federalist No. 31, Hamilton argues that the national government needs

    1. no power to tax
    2. a general power of taxation to carry out its responsibilities
    3. to rely on requests to the states for money
    4. to borrow only from foreign nations
    Show answer

    B. a general power of taxation to carry out its responsibilities: Hamilton argued a government should have every power needed to accomplish its duties, including taxation.

The Federalist: An Overview (23)

Read this section →

  1. The Federalist Papers were primarily written to persuade the voters of which state to ratify the Constitution?

    1. New York
    2. Massachusetts
    3. Pennsylvania
    4. Virginia
    Show answer

    A. New York: They first appeared in New York newspapers in 1787-1788.

  2. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "If men were angels, no government would be necessary."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Thomas Jefferson
    2. James Madison
    3. Thomas Paine
    4. Patrick Henry
    Show answer

    B. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 51, written principally by James Madison.

  3. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "Ambition must be made to counteract ambition."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. George Mason
    2. Benjamin Franklin
    3. James Madison
    4. John Adams
    Show answer

    C. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 51, written principally by James Madison.

  4. Which Founder did NOT write any of the Federalist Papers?

    1. James Madison
    2. Thomas Jefferson
    3. Alexander Hamilton
    4. John Jay
    Show answer

    B. Thomas Jefferson: Jefferson was serving as minister to France.

  5. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "Extend the sphere, and you take in a greater variety of parties and interests; you make it less probable that a majority of the whole will have a common motive to invade the rights of other citizens."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Thomas Paine
    2. James Madison
    3. John Adams
    4. Alexander Hamilton
    Show answer

    B. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 10, written principally by James Madison.

  6. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "By a faction, I understand a number of citizens... who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. Thomas Paine
    3. John Adams
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 10, written principally by James Madison.

  7. Which statement accurately describes the Federalist Papers?

    1. It was published in New York newspapers to persuade voters to ratify the Constitution.
    2. It was a source of the ban on cruel and unusual punishment in the Eighth Amendment.
    3. It was the source of the principle that even the king was subject to the law.
    4. It was a state constitution, ratified by the people, that established a bicameral legislature, a governor with veto power, and an independent judiciary.
    Show answer

    A. It was published in New York newspapers to persuade voters to ratify the Constitution.: The Federalist Papers were published in New York newspapers to persuade voters to ratify the Constitution.

  8. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "...a government which derives all its powers directly or indirectly from the great body of the people, and is administered by persons holding their offices during pleasure, for a limited period, or during good behavior."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. John Jay
    2. Thomas Paine
    3. Benjamin Franklin
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 39, written principally by James Madison.

  9. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "The judiciary... will always be the least dangerous to the political rights of the Constitution."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Benjamin Franklin
    2. John Adams
    3. Alexander Hamilton
    4. John Jay
    Show answer

    C. Alexander Hamilton: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 78, written principally by Alexander Hamilton.

  10. The Federalist Papers were written under the pen name

    1. Cato
    2. Brutus
    3. Publius
    4. Centinel
    Show answer

    C. Publius: Publius honored a founder of the Roman Republic.

  11. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "A government ought to contain in itself every power requisite to the full accomplishment of the objects committed to its care... free from every other control but a regard to the public good and to the sense of the people."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Thomas Paine
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. Benjamin Franklin
    4. Thomas Jefferson
    Show answer

    B. Alexander Hamilton: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 31, written principally by Alexander Hamilton.

  12. Use the excerpt below to answer the question that follows.

    "...in a democracy, the people meet and exercise the government in person; in a republic, they assemble and administer it by their representatives and agents."

    Who was the principal author of the document containing this excerpt?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. John Jay
    3. James Madison
    4. John Adams
    Show answer

    C. James Madison: The excerpt is from Federalist No. 14, written principally by James Madison.

  13. Which founding-era or earlier document was a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the name 'Publius'?

    1. Massachusetts Constitution of 1780
    2. Mayflower Compact
    3. Federalist Papers
    4. Articles of Confederation
    Show answer

    C. Federalist Papers: The Federalist Papers were a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the name 'Publius'.

  14. Which statement accurately describes the Federalist Papers?

    1. It was the framework that created a one-house Congress in which each state had one vote.
    2. It was a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the name 'Publius'.
    3. It was the first constitution of the United States, ratified in 1781.
    4. It was the source of the principle that even the king was subject to the law.
    Show answer

    B. It was a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the name 'Publius'.: The Federalist Papers were a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the name 'Publius'.

  15. Which founding-era or earlier document was published in New York newspapers to persuade voters to ratify the Constitution?

    1. Declaration of Independence
    2. Articles of Confederation
    3. Federalist Papers
    4. Mayflower Compact
    Show answer

    C. Federalist Papers: The Federalist Papers were published in New York newspapers to persuade voters to ratify the Constitution.

  16. How many essays make up The Federalist?

    1. 10
    2. 27
    3. 51
    4. 85
    Show answer

    D. 85: The essays were published in 1787–1788 and collected in book form in 1788.

  17. Under what pen name were the Federalist Papers published?

    1. Brutus
    2. Cato
    3. Publius
    4. Common Sense
    Show answer

    C. Publius: The name honored Publius Valerius Publicola, a founder of the Roman Republic.

  18. Who wrote the most essays in The Federalist?

    1. James Madison, with about 70
    2. John Jay, with about 40
    3. Alexander Hamilton, with about 51
    4. George Washington, with about 20
    Show answer

    C. Alexander Hamilton, with about 51: Madison wrote about 29 and Jay wrote 5. A few essays' authorship has been disputed.

  19. John Jay wrote only five Federalist essays. Why?

    1. He opposed the Constitution.
    2. He was serving as president.
    3. He became ill early in the project.
    4. He was in France.
    Show answer

    C. He became ill early in the project.: Jay's illness kept him from writing more than five.

  20. The main purpose of the Federalist Papers was to

    1. persuade New York voters to support ratification of the Constitution.
    2. propose a bill of rights.
    3. declare independence from Britain.
    4. argue for keeping the Articles of Confederation.
    Show answer

    A. persuade New York voters to support ratification of the Constitution.: They became a classic explanation of the Constitution's design.

  21. The Federalist Papers were originally published in New York newspapers in order to

    1. announce the Declaration of Independence
    2. defend the Articles of Confederation
    3. persuade New Yorkers to ratify the Constitution
    4. oppose a bill of rights in Congress in 1791
    Show answer

    C. persuade New Yorkers to ratify the Constitution: Hamilton, Madison, and Jay wrote 85 essays in 1787–1788 urging New York to ratify.

  22. The authors of the Federalist Papers signed their essays with which pen name?

    1. Publius
    2. Brutus
    3. Cato
    4. Centinel
    Show answer

    A. Publius: They wrote as "Publius," honoring a founder of the Roman Republic. Brutus, Cato, and Centinel were Anti-Federalist pen names.

  23. Which person wrote the most essays in The Federalist?

    1. James Madison
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. John Jay
    4. George Washington
    Show answer

    B. Alexander Hamilton: Hamilton wrote about 51 of the 85 essays, Madison about 29, and Jay 5.

Federalist No. 70 (Hamilton): An energetic executive (7)

Read this section →

  1. Which Federalist essay argued that an energetic executive led by a single president is essential to good government?

    1. Federalist No. 78
    2. Federalist No. 70
    3. Federalist No. 39
    4. Federalist No. 51
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 70: Federalist No. 70 (Alexander Hamilton) argued that an energetic executive led by a single president is essential to good government.

  2. Who wrote Federalist No. 70, which argued that an energetic executive led by a single president is essential to good government?

    1. John Jay
    2. Thomas Jefferson
    3. Alexander Hamilton
    4. Patrick Henry
    Show answer

    C. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 70 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  3. Federalist No. 70 argues that a good executive requires

    1. a council of three executives.
    2. election by state legislatures every year.
    3. energy, provided by unity (one person), duration, adequate support, and competent powers.
    4. no veto power.
    Show answer

    C. energy, provided by unity (one person), duration, adequate support, and competent powers.: Hamilton argued that a single executive allows decisive action and clear accountability.

  4. Hamilton argues in Federalist No. 70 that "energy in the executive" requires

    1. two presidents who share power
    2. a single president rather than an executive council
    3. a president chosen by Congress for life
    4. an executive with no veto
    Show answer

    B. a single president rather than an executive council: Hamilton argued unity in one person brings decision, activity, secrecy, and dispatch, and makes accountability clear.

  5. Who wrote Federalist No. 70, which argues for a single, energetic executive?

    1. James Madison
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. John Jay
    4. Robert Yates
    Show answer

    B. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 70 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  6. Which essay argues for a single, energetic executive?

    1. Federalist No. 39
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 10
    4. Federalist No. 70
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 70: Federalist No. 70 (Alexander Hamilton) argues for a single, energetic executive.

  7. "Energy in the Executive is a leading character in the definition of good government." Which essay contains this line?
    1. Federalist No. 2
    2. Federalist No. 70
    3. Federalist No. 78
    4. Federalist No. 31
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 70: The line comes from Federalist No. 70, by Alexander Hamilton.

Federalist No. 51 (Madison): Checks and Balances (15)

Read this section →

  1. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "Ambition must be made to counteract ambition."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 39
    2. Federalist No. 78
    3. Federalist No. 51
    4. Federalist No. 10
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 51: This passage is from Federalist No. 51.

  2. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "If men were angels, no government would be necessary."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 51
    2. Federalist No. 39
    3. Federalist No. 10
    4. Federalist No. 70
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 51: This passage is from Federalist No. 51.

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 51, which argued that separation of powers and checks and balances keep each branch from abusing power?

    1. Patrick Henry
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. James Madison
    4. Thomas Jefferson
    Show answer

    C. James Madison: Federalist No. 51 was written by James Madison.

  4. Which Federalist essay argued that separation of powers and checks and balances keep each branch from abusing power?

    1. Federalist No. 31
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 84
    4. Federalist No. 10
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 51: Federalist No. 51 (James Madison) argued that separation of powers and checks and balances keep each branch from abusing power.

  5. In Federalist No. 51, Madison argued that the best protection against tyranny was

    1. keeping all power in the states
    2. electing a single strong leader
    3. abolishing the judiciary
    4. giving each branch the means and motive to resist the others
    Show answer

    D. giving each branch the means and motive to resist the others: He wrote that 'ambition must be made to counteract ambition.'

  6. "Ambition must be made to counteract ambition." This quotation from Federalist No. 51 supports which principle?
    1. Checks and balances
    2. Popular sovereignty
    3. Direct democracy
    4. Judicial independence alone
    Show answer

    A. Checks and balances: Each branch has the means and motive to resist the others.

  7. In Federalist No. 51, what does Madison mean by "double security" for the rights of the people?

    1. Every law must be passed twice.
    2. Citizens vote in two elections each year.
    3. The president has two terms.
    4. Power is divided between national and state governments, then divided again among branches within each.
    Show answer

    D. Power is divided between national and state governments, then divided again among branches within each.: Federalism and separation of powers work together to protect liberty.

  8. According to Federalist No. 51, which branch "necessarily predominates" in a republic?

    1. The legislative branch
    2. The executive branch
    3. The judicial branch
    4. The military
    Show answer

    A. The legislative branch: Madison suggested dividing the legislature into two houses to weaken it.

  9. "You must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself." What is the main idea?
    1. Government must be strong enough to rule but limited enough to protect liberty.
    2. Government should have no limits.
    3. The people should have no say in government.
    4. States should control the national government.
    Show answer

    A. Government must be strong enough to rule but limited enough to protect liberty.: This passage from Federalist No. 51 sums up the Framers' balancing act.

  10. Which statement would Madison most likely agree with, based on Federalist No. 51?

    1. "Government is best which governs not at all."
    2. "The king can do no wrong."
    3. "If men were angels, no government would be necessary."
    4. "All power belongs to the legislature."
    Show answer

    C. "If men were angels, no government would be necessary.": Madison argued that because people are not angels, government must be checked.

  11. "If men were angels, no government would be necessary." Madison used this idea to argue that government must
    1. be able to control the governed and also be obliged to control itself
    2. be run by angels
    3. have unlimited power
    4. be abolished
    Show answer

    A. be able to control the governed and also be obliged to control itself: Federalist No. 51: government must control the governed and then be obliged to control itself, through checks and balances.

  12. In Federalist No. 51, Madison says the "double security" for the rights of the people comes from

    1. a written bill of rights and a standing army
    2. an elected king and a Senate
    3. dividing power between national and state governments and then among separate branches
    4. a single all-powerful legislature
    Show answer

    C. dividing power between national and state governments and then among separate branches: Power is divided between two levels of government and then subdivided among branches, giving a "double security."

  13. Who wrote Federalist No. 51, which explains how checks and balances and federalism protect liberty?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. James Madison
    3. John Jay
    4. Robert Yates
    Show answer

    B. James Madison: Federalist No. 51 was written by James Madison.

  14. Which essay explains how checks and balances and federalism protect liberty?

    1. Federalist No. 2
    2. Federalist No. 31
    3. Federalist No. 51
    4. Federalist No. 70
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 51: Federalist No. 51 (James Madison) explains how checks and balances and federalism protect liberty.

  15. "Ambition must be made to counteract ambition." Which essay contains this line?
    1. Federalist No. 84
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 2
    4. Federalist No. 47
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 51: The line comes from Federalist No. 51, by James Madison.

Federalist No. 2 (Jay): The value of union (5)

Read this section →

  1. Which Federalist essay argued that Americans are one united people who would be safer under a single strong union?

    1. Federalist No. 84
    2. Federalist No. 2
    3. Federalist No. 70
    4. Federalist No. 31
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 2: Federalist No. 2 (John Jay) argued that Americans are one united people who would be safer under a single strong union.

  2. Who wrote Federalist No. 2, which argued that Americans are one united people who would be safer under a single strong union?

    1. Thomas Jefferson
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. John Jay
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    C. John Jay: Federalist No. 2 was written by John Jay.

  3. In Federalist No. 2, John Jay emphasized

    1. Americans' shared heritage and the value of union.
    2. the dangers of a single executive.
    3. the importance of judicial review.
    4. the need for an income tax.
    Show answer

    A. Americans' shared heritage and the value of union.: Jay described Americans as one people with common ancestry, language, religion, and principles.

  4. John Jay's Federalist No. 2 emphasizes that Americans

    1. should form three separate confederacies
    2. should return to British rule
    3. are one united people who should remain under one government
    4. do not need a national government
    Show answer

    C. are one united people who should remain under one government: Jay stressed shared ancestry, language, religion, and principles as reasons for union.

  5. "Providence has been pleased to give this one connected country to one united people..." Which essay contains this line?
    1. Federalist No. 10
    2. Federalist No. 1
    3. Federalist No. 2
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 2: The line comes from Federalist No. 2, by John Jay.

Federalist No. 10 (Madison): Controlling Faction (15)

Read this section →

  1. Federalist No. 10 defines a faction as a group of citizens united by a common interest that is

    1. adverse to the rights of other citizens or the interests of the community
    2. loyal to the king
    3. a political party in Parliament
    4. devoted to religious worship
    Show answer

    A. adverse to the rights of other citizens or the interests of the community: Madison worried factions would threaten rights.

  2. Which Federalist essay argued that a large republic is the best way to control the effects of factions?

    1. Federalist No. 31
    2. Federalist No. 78
    3. Federalist No. 10
    4. Federalist No. 14
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 10: Federalist No. 10 (James Madison) argued that a large republic is the best way to control the effects of factions.

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 10, which argued that a large republic is the best way to control the effects of factions?

    1. John Jay
    2. Patrick Henry
    3. Alexander Hamilton
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: Federalist No. 10 was written by James Madison.

  4. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "By a faction, I understand a number of citizens... who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 39
    2. Federalist No. 70
    3. Federalist No. 10
    4. Federalist No. 14
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 10: This passage is from Federalist No. 10.

  5. According to Federalist No. 10, the causes of faction cannot be removed without destroying liberty, so the best remedy is to

    1. ban political parties
    2. make all citizens share the same opinions
    3. give power to a monarch
    4. control its effects through a large republic
    Show answer

    D. control its effects through a large republic: Madison argued a large republic dilutes factions.

  6. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "Extend the sphere, and you take in a greater variety of parties and interests; you make it less probable that a majority of the whole will have a common motive to invade the rights of other citizens."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 70
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 10
    4. Federalist No. 14
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 10: This passage is from Federalist No. 10.

  7. Use the excerpt below, from Federalist No. 10, to answer the question that follows.

    "By a faction, I understand a number of citizens... who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens."

    Which principle is most directly reflected in the excerpt?

    1. controlling factions
    2. protection against unreasonable searches
    3. natural rights
    4. limits on punishment
    Show answer

    A. controlling factions: The excerpt from Federalist No. 10 reflects controlling factions.

  8. How does Madison define a faction in Federalist No. 10?

    1. A branch of government
    2. A state government
    3. A group of citizens united by a common interest or passion opposed to the rights of others or the interests of the community
    4. A military unit
    Show answer

    C. A group of citizens united by a common interest or passion opposed to the rights of others or the interests of the community: Factions could be a majority or a minority.

  9. According to Federalist No. 10, what is "the most common and durable source of factions"?

    1. Religion alone
    2. Foreign influence
    3. The British monarchy
    4. The various and unequal distribution of property
    Show answer

    D. The various and unequal distribution of property: Madison argued that differences in wealth and economic interests divide society.

  10. Madison argued in Federalist No. 10 that because the causes of faction cannot be removed without destroying liberty, government should

    1. control the effects of faction.
    2. abolish political parties by law.
    3. make all citizens hold the same opinions.
    4. give all power to the majority.
    Show answer

    A. control the effects of faction.: He said removing causes would be "worse than the disease."

  11. According to Federalist No. 10, representatives in a republic would help "refine and enlarge the public views." What does this mean?

    1. Representatives must always follow polls.
    2. The public should vote on every law.
    3. Elected representatives can filter popular passions through wiser judgment.
    4. States should be made larger.
    Show answer

    C. Elected representatives can filter popular passions through wiser judgment.: Representation is one advantage of a republic over a pure democracy.

  12. Madison's main point in Federalist No. 10 about the size of the republic was that

    1. a large republic includes so many interests that no single faction can easily dominate.
    2. small republics are safer from faction.
    3. large nations need a king.
    4. states should be eliminated.
    Show answer

    A. a large republic includes so many interests that no single faction can easily dominate.: Madison reversed the traditional view that republics must be small.

  13. In Federalist No. 10, Madison defines a faction as a group

    1. chosen by voters to represent a district
    2. united by a common interest adverse to the rights of others or the interests of the community
    3. appointed by the president to advise him
    4. of states that join together for defense
    Show answer

    B. united by a common interest adverse to the rights of others or the interests of the community: Madison's faction: citizens united by a common passion or interest adverse to others' rights or the community's interests.

  14. According to Federalist No. 10, why can't the causes of faction be removed?

    1. Factions are protected by the Bill of Rights
    2. Doing so would require destroying liberty or making everyone think alike
    3. The Constitution forbids it
    4. Only the king can remove them
    Show answer

    B. Doing so would require destroying liberty or making everyone think alike: Madison said the causes of faction are "sown in the nature of man"; the cure must be controlling its effects.

  15. "Liberty is to faction what air is to fire..." Which essay contains this line?
    1. Federalist No. 78
    2. Federalist No. 14
    3. Federalist No. 1
    4. Federalist No. 10
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 10: The line comes from Federalist No. 10, by James Madison.

The Anti-Federalist Papers and Brutus No. 1 (16)

Read this section →

  1. Which was a major argument of the Anti-Federalist Papers?

    1. The president should serve for life.
    2. The states should be abolished.
    3. The Articles of Confederation gave Congress too much power.
    4. The Constitution gave the national government too much power and lacked a bill of rights.
    Show answer

    D. The Constitution gave the national government too much power and lacked a bill of rights.: Anti-Federalists defended state authority and individual rights.

  2. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "In a republic, the manners, sentiments, and interests of the people should be similar... [A] free republic cannot succeed over a country of such immense extent."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Common Sense
    2. Federalist No. 10
    3. Brutus No. 1
    4. Declaration of Independence
    Show answer

    C. Brutus No. 1: This passage is from Brutus No. 1.

  3. Which founding-era or earlier document was a collection of essays, such as those by 'Brutus,' warning that the Constitution gave too much power to the national government?

    1. Anti-Federalist Papers
    2. Mayflower Compact
    3. Massachusetts Constitution of 1780
    4. U.S. Constitution
    Show answer

    A. Anti-Federalist Papers: The Anti-Federalist Papers were a collection of essays, such as those by 'Brutus,' warning that the Constitution gave too much power to the national government.

  4. Which Anti-Federalist essayist warned that the Necessary and Proper Clause and Supremacy Clause would let the national government swallow the states?

    1. Silence Dogood
    2. Brutus
    3. Poor Richard
    4. Publius
    Show answer

    B. Brutus: Brutus No. 1 predicted consolidation of power.

  5. Which statement accurately describes the Anti-Federalist Papers?

    1. It was written by George Mason in June 1776 and a model for the Bill of Rights.
    2. It was a collection of essays, such as those by 'Brutus,' warning that the Constitution gave too much power to the national government.
    3. It was proposed by James Madison in the First Congress and ratified in 1791.
    4. It was amendable only with the consent of all thirteen states.
    Show answer

    B. It was a collection of essays, such as those by 'Brutus,' warning that the Constitution gave too much power to the national government.: The Anti-Federalist Papers were a collection of essays, such as those by 'Brutus,' warning that the Constitution gave too much power to the national government.

  6. Brutus No. 1 argued that a free republic could not succeed over a large territory because

    1. the states were too small
    2. representatives could not know or reflect the views of so many diverse people
    3. the president would be too weak
    4. there would be too many newspapers
    Show answer

    B. representatives could not know or reflect the views of so many diverse people: Brutus drew on Montesquieu's view that republics must be small.

  7. The Anti-Federalist essays signed "Brutus" are generally attributed to

    1. John Jay.
    2. James Madison.
    3. Benjamin Franklin.
    4. Robert Yates of New York.
    Show answer

    D. Robert Yates of New York.: Yates had left the Constitutional Convention early in protest. Some scholars suggest other authors.

  8. Brutus No. 1 warned that the Necessary and Proper Clause and the Supremacy Clause would

    1. make Congress too weak.
    2. prevent any taxes.
    3. make judges powerless.
    4. allow the national government to absorb the powers of the states.
    Show answer

    D. allow the national government to absorb the powers of the states.: Brutus feared that the new government would become a consolidated national government.

  9. Brutus No. 1 warned that the "necessary and proper" and "general welfare" language in the Constitution would

    1. weaken Congress too much
    2. let the national government expand its power and absorb the states
    3. abolish the presidency
    4. protect states from federal laws
    Show answer

    B. let the national government expand its power and absorb the states: Brutus argued those clauses gave Congress almost unlimited power, leading to consolidation.

  10. Which pair correctly matches a writer with his position on ratification?

    1. Publius: opposed ratification
    2. Brutus: supported ratification without changes
    3. James Madison: opposed any national government
    4. Brutus: opposed ratification
    Show answer

    D. Brutus: opposed ratification: Brutus (probably Robert Yates) was an Anti-Federalist; Publius (Hamilton, Madison, Jay) supported ratification.

  11. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. A large republic controls faction better than a small one.
    2. The Constitution's separation of powers and checks and balances will prevent tyranny.
    3. The Necessary and Proper Clause will let Congress swallow up the powers of the states.
    4. A bill of rights is unnecessary because the national government has only listed powers.
    Show answer

    C. The Necessary and Proper Clause will let Congress swallow up the powers of the states.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

  12. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. A large republic controls faction better than a small one.
    2. A bill of rights is unnecessary because the national government has only listed powers.
    3. Without a bill of rights, the people's liberties are not secure.
    4. The Articles of Confederation proved that a weak central government cannot keep the union together.
    Show answer

    C. Without a bill of rights, the people's liberties are not secure.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

  13. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. A large republic controls faction better than a small one.
    2. A strong national government is needed to pay debts, regulate trade, and defend the nation.
    3. A free republic cannot survive over a territory as large as the United States.
    4. The Constitution's separation of powers and checks and balances will prevent tyranny.
    Show answer

    C. A free republic cannot survive over a territory as large as the United States.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

  14. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. The Constitution's separation of powers and checks and balances will prevent tyranny.
    2. A bill of rights is unnecessary because the national government has only listed powers.
    3. Federal judges appointed for life will be answerable to no one and will expand national power.
    4. Independent federal judges with life tenure will protect the Constitution.
    Show answer

    C. Federal judges appointed for life will be answerable to no one and will expand national power.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

  15. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. The Constitution's separation of powers and checks and balances will prevent tyranny.
    2. The Articles of Confederation proved that a weak central government cannot keep the union together.
    3. The House is too small to represent the views of so many people.
    4. A strong national government is needed to pay debts, regulate trade, and defend the nation.
    Show answer

    C. The House is too small to represent the views of so many people.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

  16. Which statement would an Anti-Federalist such as Brutus most likely make?

    1. The Articles of Confederation proved that a weak central government cannot keep the union together.
    2. Independent federal judges with life tenure will protect the Constitution.
    3. Power should remain mostly with the state governments, closer to the people.
    4. A strong national government is needed to pay debts, regulate trade, and defend the nation.
    Show answer

    C. Power should remain mostly with the state governments, closer to the people.: Anti-Federalists feared a powerful national government and wanted a bill of rights.

Federalist No. 78 (Hamilton): The judiciary and judicial review (12)

Read this section →

  1. Which Federalist essay argued that an independent judiciary with life tenure is needed to guard the Constitution?

    1. Federalist No. 78
    2. Federalist No. 2
    3. Federalist No. 31
    4. Federalist No. 51
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 78: Federalist No. 78 (Alexander Hamilton) argued that an independent judiciary with life tenure is needed to guard the Constitution.

  2. Use the excerpt below, from Federalist No. 78, to answer the question that follows.

    "The judiciary... will always be the least dangerous to the political rights of the Constitution."

    Which principle is most directly reflected in the excerpt?

    1. support for public education
    2. consent of the governed
    3. social contract
    4. an independent judiciary
    Show answer

    D. an independent judiciary: The excerpt from Federalist No. 78 reflects an independent judiciary.

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 78, which argued that an independent judiciary with life tenure is needed to guard the Constitution?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. James Madison
    3. Thomas Jefferson
    4. John Jay
    Show answer

    A. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 78 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  4. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "The judiciary... will always be the least dangerous to the political rights of the Constitution."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 78
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 70
    4. Federalist No. 39
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 78: This passage is from Federalist No. 78.

  5. Which Federalist essay calls the judiciary 'the least dangerous' branch?

    1. Federalist No. 2
    2. Federalist No. 10
    3. Federalist No. 14
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 78: Hamilton noted courts have neither force nor will, but merely judgment.

  6. Federalist No. 78 calls the judiciary the

    1. "most powerful" branch.
    2. "people's" branch.
    3. "fourth estate."
    4. "least dangerous" branch.
    Show answer

    D. "least dangerous" branch.: Hamilton wrote that the courts have "neither FORCE nor WILL, but merely judgment."

  7. Why did Hamilton argue in Federalist No. 78 that judges should serve "during good behavior"?

    1. So judges can run for office.
    2. So the president can remove them easily.
    3. So they can make laws.
    4. Permanent tenure protects judicial independence and allows judges to resist popular and political pressure.
    Show answer

    D. Permanent tenure protects judicial independence and allows judges to resist popular and political pressure.: Independence lets judges protect the Constitution against unconstitutional acts.

  8. In Federalist No. 78, Hamilton explained that if a law conflicts with the Constitution, judges should

    1. follow the law passed by Congress.
    2. ask the president to decide.
    3. ignore both.
    4. follow the Constitution, which reflects the will of the people.
    Show answer

    D. follow the Constitution, which reflects the will of the people.: This argument for judicial review was later applied in Marbury v. Madison (1803).

  9. Hamilton calls the judiciary the "least dangerous" branch in Federalist No. 78 because it

    1. controls the military
    2. has neither force nor will, but merely judgment
    3. controls taxing and spending
    4. is elected every two years
    Show answer

    B. has neither force nor will, but merely judgment: The judiciary has no influence over "the sword or the purse"; it has "neither FORCE nor WILL, but merely judgment."

  10. Federalist No. 78 defends judicial review and

    1. life tenure for federal judges during good behavior
    2. the election of judges by the people
    3. term limits for Supreme Court justices
    4. letting Congress overrule court decisions by majority vote
    Show answer

    A. life tenure for federal judges during good behavior: Hamilton argued permanent tenure during good behavior secures judicial independence.

  11. Who wrote Federalist No. 78, which defends judicial independence and judicial review, calling the judiciary the least dangerous branch?

    1. James Madison
    2. John Jay
    3. Robert Yates
    4. Alexander Hamilton
    Show answer

    D. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 78 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  12. Which essay defends judicial independence and judicial review, calling the judiciary the least dangerous branch?

    1. Federalist No. 51
    2. Federalist No. 78
    3. Federalist No. 70
    4. Federalist No. 1
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 78: Federalist No. 78 (Alexander Hamilton) defends judicial independence and judicial review, calling the judiciary the least dangerous branch.

Federalist No. 39 (Madison): Republican and Partly Federal, Partly National (8)

Read this section →

  1. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "...a government which derives all its powers directly or indirectly from the great body of the people, and is administered by persons holding their offices during pleasure, for a limited period, or during good behavior."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 31
    2. Federalist No. 84
    3. Federalist No. 39
    4. Federalist No. 51
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 39: This passage is from Federalist No. 39.

  2. In Federalist No. 39, Madison described the proposed government as

    1. purely national
    2. partly national and partly federal
    3. purely federal
    4. a monarchy
    Show answer

    B. partly national and partly federal: It combined national and federal features.

  3. Which Federalist essay argued that the proposed government is republican and is partly national and partly federal?

    1. Federalist No. 70
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 31
    4. Federalist No. 39
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 39: Federalist No. 39 (James Madison) argued that the proposed government is republican and is partly national and partly federal.

  4. Who wrote Federalist No. 39, which argued that the proposed government is republican and is partly national and partly federal?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. Patrick Henry
    3. Thomas Jefferson
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: Federalist No. 39 was written by James Madison.

  5. Federalist No. 39 defines a republic as a government that

    1. derives its powers directly or indirectly from the people and is run by officials serving for limited terms or during good behavior.
    2. is ruled by a hereditary king.
    3. is ruled by religious leaders.
    4. holds every vote in a town meeting.
    Show answer

    A. derives its powers directly or indirectly from the people and is run by officials serving for limited terms or during good behavior.: Madison emphasized that power must come from the people.

  6. In Federalist No. 39, Madison argues that the Constitution is

    1. purely national, abolishing the states
    2. both national and federal in character
    3. purely federal, like the Articles
    4. a monarchy in disguise
    Show answer

    B. both national and federal in character: Madison said the Constitution is "neither a national nor a federal Constitution, but a composition of both."

  7. Who wrote Federalist No. 39, which describes the Constitution as partly national and partly federal and defines a republic?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. John Jay
    3. Robert Yates
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: Federalist No. 39 was written by James Madison.

  8. Which essay describes the Constitution as partly national and partly federal and defines a republic?

    1. Federalist No. 78
    2. Federalist No. 2
    3. Federalist No. 39
    4. Federalist No. 84
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 39: Federalist No. 39 (James Madison) describes the Constitution as partly national and partly federal and defines a republic.

Federalist No. 14 (Madison): A Republic Can Be Large (7)

Read this section →

  1. In Federalist No. 14, Madison distinguished a democracy from a republic by noting that in a republic the people govern

    1. through representatives and agents
    2. through a king
    3. through the courts
    4. in person
    Show answer

    A. through representatives and agents: Representation lets a republic extend over a large area.

  2. Which Federalist essay argued that a republic, unlike a pure democracy, can extend over a large territory?

    1. Federalist No. 51
    2. Federalist No. 14
    3. Federalist No. 84
    4. Federalist No. 70
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 14: Federalist No. 14 (James Madison) argued that a republic, unlike a pure democracy, can extend over a large territory.

  3. Use the passage below, from an essay written during the debate over ratification, to answer the question that follows.

    "...in a democracy, the people meet and exercise the government in person; in a republic, they assemble and administer it by their representatives and agents."

    Which essay is the source of the passage?

    1. Federalist No. 39
    2. Federalist No. 2
    3. Federalist No. 14
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    C. Federalist No. 14: This passage is from Federalist No. 14.

  4. Who wrote Federalist No. 14, which argued that a republic, unlike a pure democracy, can extend over a large territory?

    1. James Madison
    2. John Jay
    3. Patrick Henry
    4. Thomas Jefferson
    Show answer

    A. James Madison: Federalist No. 14 was written by James Madison.

  5. In Federalist No. 14, Madison argued that

    1. the nation should be divided into three confederacies.
    2. democracy requires a small territory, so the union should break up.
    3. a republic can be extended over a large territory because representatives do the governing.
    4. the capital should be in Philadelphia.
    Show answer

    C. a republic can be extended over a large territory because representatives do the governing.: He distinguished a republic from a pure democracy, which must be small.

  6. Who wrote Federalist No. 14, which argues that a republic can work across a large territory because representatives govern?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. John Jay
    3. Robert Yates
    4. James Madison
    Show answer

    D. James Madison: Federalist No. 14 was written by James Madison.

  7. Which essay argues that a republic can work across a large territory because representatives govern?

    1. Federalist No. 1
    2. Federalist No. 14
    3. Federalist No. 47
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 14: Federalist No. 14 (James Madison) argues that a republic can work across a large territory because representatives govern.

Federalist No. 84 (Hamilton): Against a bill of rights (6)

Read this section →

  1. Which Federalist essay argued that a bill of rights is unnecessary and could even be dangerous?

    1. Federalist No. 14
    2. Federalist No. 51
    3. Federalist No. 78
    4. Federalist No. 84
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 84: Federalist No. 84 (Alexander Hamilton) argued that a bill of rights is unnecessary and could even be dangerous.

  2. Who wrote Federalist No. 84, which argued that a bill of rights is unnecessary and could even be dangerous?

    1. Thomas Jefferson
    2. Patrick Henry
    3. John Jay
    4. Alexander Hamilton
    Show answer

    D. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 84 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  3. Federalist No. 84 argued that a bill of rights

    1. was unnecessary and could even be dangerous.
    2. was essential to ratification.
    3. should list every possible right.
    4. belonged in state constitutions only.
    Show answer

    A. was unnecessary and could even be dangerous.: Hamilton feared that listing rights might imply the government had powers beyond those granted.

  4. Hamilton argues in Federalist No. 84 that a bill of rights could be dangerous because

    1. listing some rights might imply the government has power over rights not listed
    2. it would give too much power to the states
    3. it would abolish trial by jury
    4. it would require a king
    Show answer

    A. listing some rights might imply the government has power over rights not listed: Hamilton feared an enumeration of exceptions to powers not granted could be read as implying such powers. The Ninth Amendment answers this concern.

  5. Which amendment responds most directly to the worry, raised in Federalist No. 84, that listing rights could imply unlisted rights are unprotected?

    1. The First Amendment
    2. The Fifth Amendment
    3. The Ninth Amendment
    4. The Twenty-Seventh Amendment
    Show answer

    C. The Ninth Amendment: The Ninth Amendment says enumerating certain rights shall not be construed to deny others retained by the people.

  6. "...the Constitution is itself, in every rational sense, and to every useful purpose, A BILL OF RIGHTS." Which essay contains this line?
    1. Federalist No. 84
    2. Federalist No. 2
    3. Federalist No. 78
    4. Federalist No. 31
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 84: The line comes from Federalist No. 84, by Alexander Hamilton.

Federalist No. 47 (Madison): Separation of powers (4)

Read this section →

  1. "The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands... may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny." This passage is from
    1. Federalist No. 10.
    2. Federalist No. 78.
    3. Brutus No. 1.
    4. Federalist No. 47.
    Show answer

    D. Federalist No. 47.: Madison cited Montesquieu in defending separation of powers.

  2. Federalist No. 47 warns that putting legislative, executive, and judicial powers in the same hands is

    1. the very definition of tyranny
    2. necessary in wartime
    3. the best form of democracy
    4. required by the Articles
    Show answer

    A. the very definition of tyranny: Madison: accumulation of all powers in the same hands "may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny."

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 47, which defends separation of powers, calling the accumulation of all powers in the same hands the very definition of tyranny?

    1. Alexander Hamilton
    2. John Jay
    3. James Madison
    4. Robert Yates
    Show answer

    C. James Madison: Federalist No. 47 was written by James Madison.

  4. Which essay defends separation of powers, calling the accumulation of all powers in the same hands the very definition of tyranny?

    1. Federalist No. 47
    2. Federalist No. 1
    3. Federalist No. 70
    4. Federalist No. 78
    Show answer

    A. Federalist No. 47: Federalist No. 47 (James Madison) defends separation of powers, calling the accumulation of all powers in the same hands the very definition of tyranny.

Other Federalist Papers to Recognize (4)

Read this section →

  1. Federalist No. 68 defends which feature of the Constitution?

    1. Life tenure for judges
    2. The Supremacy Clause
    3. The method of electing the president through electors
    4. The power to tax
    Show answer

    C. The method of electing the president through electors: Hamilton argued that electors would choose a qualified president and resist intrigue.

  2. Federalist No. 1 introduced the series by asking whether

    1. the colonies should declare independence.
    2. slavery should be abolished.
    3. Washington should be king.
    4. societies can establish good government "from reflection and choice," or are forever destined to depend on "accident and force."
    Show answer

    D. societies can establish good government "from reflection and choice," or are forever destined to depend on "accident and force.": Hamilton framed ratification as a test for the whole world.

  3. Who wrote Federalist No. 1, which introduces the series and asks whether people can create good government by reflection and choice?

    1. James Madison
    2. Alexander Hamilton
    3. John Jay
    4. Robert Yates
    Show answer

    B. Alexander Hamilton: Federalist No. 1 was written by Alexander Hamilton.

  4. Which essay introduces the series and asks whether people can create good government by reflection and choice?

    1. Federalist No. 84
    2. Federalist No. 1
    3. Federalist No. 14
    4. Federalist No. 51
    Show answer

    B. Federalist No. 1: Federalist No. 1 (Alexander Hamilton) introduces the series and asks whether people can create good government by reflection and choice.