Articles of Confederation, Northwest Ordinance, Shays' Rebellion Quiz

When was the AoC written? And by whom?

1777, by John Dickinson

When was the AoC accepted by the states? What was its significance?

1781, it was the first national constitution

What did the AoC do?

Created permanent union among the 13 colonies and developed an independent nation of the USA.

What were the strengths of the AoC?

Had the power to declare war and peace, print money, make treaties, and settle disputes.

What were the weaknesses of the AoC?

Congress had no power to tax or regulate trade, which meant they had no money. Laws had to be approved by 9-13 states and amendments had to be approved by all 13 states, which made it difficult to change laws. The rights of the US citizens were not protected, and they couldn’t enforce laws, so no one listened to them, which led to a lack of unity. Also, no matter the size, only one vote was allowed for each state.

What did the NWO do?

It outlined a plan for applying for statehood to Western territories and the orderly expansion of the US. The law established a temporary government for the Northwest Territory and provided a way for new states to be created.

What did the NWO result in?

No slavery, good education, freedom of religion, trial by jury, property rights, and fair treatment.

How was the NW territory divided?

“Not less than three nor more than five States"

What was the three-stage method for admitting a new state, according to the NWO?

Appointment of a governor, secretary, and judges. Election of an assembly and a non-voting delegate to Congress, and then the drafting of a state constitution and request for admission to the nation.

Where and when did Shays’ Rebellion take place?

Western Massachusetts, August 1786 - February 1787

What did Shays’ Rebellion prove?

How weak the AoC was but it promoted national leaders to create a stronger central government.

Why did Shays’ Rebellion take place?

Many people were in debt after the war and the government didn’t help. Instead, they seized land and put them in jail. This angered the people, leading to a rebellion.

Who led Shays’ Rebellion?

Daniel Shays, a former captain in the Continental Army and bankrupt farmer.

What did Shays’ Rebellion do?

Forced state courts to close and free debtors from prison.

What was the outcome of Shays’ Rebellion?

Massachusetts strengthened their army and suppressed the rebellion under the command of General Benjamin Lincoln. The militia defending the state arsenal opened fire on the rebels, resulting in the death of four farmers. When General Lincoln's troops arrived, they officially ended the rebellion.

Indifference meaning

lack of interest, apathy

Plight meaning

unfortunate situation, difficulty

Recession meaing

lack of money, shortage