Founding Documents and Their Principles
These texts are often cited or referenced on the SAT because of their foundational role in American history and government.
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The Declaration of Independence (1776) by Thomas Jefferson
- Key Focus: The central argument for independence, appeals to natural rights, and rhetorical techniques like parallelism and repetition.
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The U.S. Constitution (1787)
- Focus on the Preamble and significant amendments, especially:
- Bill of Rights (First 10 Amendments)
- 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments (addressing slavery and civil rights)
- Focus on the Preamble and significant amendments, especially:
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Federalist Papers
- Federalist No. 10 by James Madison: The dangers of factions and the benefits of a republic.
- Federalist No. 51 by James Madison: The need for checks and balances in government.
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George Washington’s Farewell Address (1796)
- Key Themes: Warnings about political parties, foreign alliances, and the importance of national unity.
Documents on Slavery and Civil Rights
These texts are critical for understanding the evolution of American ideals.
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The Emancipation Proclamation (1863) by Abraham Lincoln
- Focus on its purpose and its implications for liberty and equality.
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"What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?" (1852) by Frederick Douglass
- Analyze Douglass’ critique of American ideals in the context of slavery, focusing on his use of irony and rhetorical appeals.
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"Letter from Birmingham Jail" (1963) by Martin Luther King Jr.
- A masterpiece of logic and rhetoric, useful for understanding persuasive strategies and tone.
Women's Rights and Social Reform
These documents highlight equality and justice, themes frequently explored on the SAT.
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The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments (1848)
- Modeled after the Declaration of Independence, this text is ideal for analyzing how structure and language reinforce its argument.
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Sojourner Truth’s "Ain’t I a Woman?" (1851)
- A powerful speech advocating for both abolition and women’s rights. Focus on tone and rhetorical devices.
Modern and Contemporary Texts
These are less common but still valuable for their complexity and relevance.
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Franklin D. Roosevelt’s First Inaugural Address (1933)
- Famous for the line, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," it demonstrates how leaders inspire during crises.
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John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address (1961)
- Known for its call to action, this speech is a great example of powerful rhetoric and tone.
- The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments (1848)
- Modeled after the Declaration of Independence, this document advocates for women's rights. Analyze how it mirrors foundational texts to strengthen its argument.
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"The Ballot or the Bullet" (1964) by Malcolm X
- A compelling speech emphasizing civil rights and activism. Useful for understanding persuasive strategies and tone.
