Lecture 14-25 (Main Ideas)

What was the purpose of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?

It established a government for the Northwest Territory, created a process for admitting new states, and prohibited slavery in the territory.

How did Thomas Jefferson's vision for the Northwest Territory differ from Congress's?

Jefferson wanted cheap land for self-governing yeoman farmers, while Congress favored selling land at higher prices to speculators.

What were the major flaws of the Articles of Confederation according to Alexander Hamilton?

Lack of power in Congress, no proper executive, weak military structure, and Congress’s inability to raise funds or enforce laws.

What was Hamilton’s solution to the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

A stronger national government, national bank, appointment of cabinet officers by Congress, and a powerful executive.

What did James Madison argue in Federalist No. 10?

He argued that a large federal republic could best control factions and protect minority rights through a representative government.

What compromise resolved the debate over state representation in Congress?

The Great Compromise: representation by population in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

What was the Three-Fifths Compromise?

A constitutional agreement where each enslaved person counted as 3/5 of a person for taxation and representation purposes.

Which constitutional clause allowed Congress to ban the transatlantic slave trade after 20 years?

Article I, Section 9, Clause 1.

What were the main concerns of Anti-Federalists about the new Constitution?

Fear of a strong central government, lack of a Bill of Rights, and the potential for a standing army to suppress liberties.

Who were the key Federalist authors of The Federalist Papers?

Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay.