Forming a New Government Study Guide

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the formation of the new government under the Constitution.

Articles of Confederation

A document that created a league of friendship, giving states freedom and independence.

Legislative Branch

The only branch set up by the Articles of Confederation, responsible for passing laws.

Shays Rebellion

A revolt led by Massachusetts farmers due to difficulties in paying property taxes.

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Legislation that divided the Northwest Territory into smaller territories and provided a path to statehood.

Constitutional Convention

A meeting in May 1787 aimed at revising the Articles of Confederation by making small changes.

Virginia Plan

Proposal that larger states should have more representatives in Congress compared to smaller states.

Great Compromise

Agreement that created two houses in Congress with equal representation in the Senate and population-based representation in the House of Representatives.

Preamble to the Constitution

Introduces the Constitution and outlines its major goals, including establishing justice and ensuring domestic tranquility.

Federalists

Supporters of a strong national government as established by the Constitution.

Antifederalists

Disagreed with the Constitution and wanted a Bill of Rights to limit government power.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual freedoms.

Ratification

The formal approval of the Constitution by the states.

Benjamin Franklin

He famously said, "A republic, if you can keep it," emphasizing the responsibilities of citizens in a republic.