Civics Chapter 4 : The Story of Our Constitution

Articles of Confederation (AOC)

The first constitution of the United States, adopted in 1781, which established a weak central government and was ultimately replaced by the U.S. Constitution.

Strengths of the AOC

1. Successfully negotiated the Treaty of Paris (1783) ending the Revolutionary War. 2. Established a process for admitting new states to the Union.

Weaknesses of the AOC

1. Lack of a strong central government to enforce laws. 2. No power to tax, leading to financial difficulties. 3. No power to regulate interstate or foreign trade.

Power to tax

The authority of a government to impose and collect taxes from individuals and businesses to fund public services and obligations.

Power to regulate trade

The authority of a government to control and manage trade activities, including tariffs and commerce between states and with foreign nations.

National armed forces

Military forces maintained by a nation to defend its sovereignty and interests, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines.

Unanimous consent

An agreement by all parties involved, often required in the context of legislative decisions or agreements.

Debt

The amount of money borrowed by one party from another, which must be repaid, often with interest.

U.S. Constitution

The supreme law of the United States, established in 1787, which outlines the framework of government and the rights of citizens.

Article I

The section of the U.S. Constitution that establishes the legislative branch of the government, primarily the Congress, which is responsible for making laws.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress, consisting of representatives based on state population, with powers including initiating revenue bills and impeaching officials.

Senate

The upper chamber of Congress, consisting of two senators from each state, with powers including ratifying treaties and confirming presidential appointments.

Article II

The section of the U.S. Constitution that establishes the executive branch, outlining the powers and responsibilities of the President.

President

The head of the executive branch of the U.S. government, elected for a four-year term, with powers including enforcing laws, conducting foreign policy, and serving as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.

Article III

The section of the U.S. Constitution that establishes the judicial branch, outlining the powers and structure of the federal court system.