Struggles of the Early Republic: Articles of Confederation through Jefferson

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and figures from the lecture on the early struggles of the United States, including the Articles of Confederation and the presidencies of Washington, Adams, and Jefferson.

What were some benefits of the early U.S. after the American Revolution?

Land was cheap and plentiful, no French Revolution excesses, domestic manufacturing grew, and could trade freely with foreign nations.

What were some negatives faced by the early U.S. post-Revolution?

Runaway inflation, British manufacturers flooded the market with cheap goods, lack of naval protection, crumbling unity, and disrespect from European countries.

What was the main purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

To create a loose confederation with a weak central Congress due to fear of strong central government.

What was a significant weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles had no power to regulate commerce and no ability to tax.

What was Shay's Rebellion?

A rebellion led by poor farmers demanding paper money to help pay off debts.

What were the strengths of the Articles of Confederation?

Western lands were turned over to manage by the central government, and the Land Ordinance of 1785 aided in paying national debt.

What was the outcome of the Constitutional Convention of 1787?

The creation of a new Constitution with a stronger federal government.

What was the Connecticut Compromise?

A compromise establishing a bicameral Congress with representation based on population in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

What was the 3/5ths Compromise?

A compromise stating that each slave would count as 3/5 of a person for representation purposes.

What did the Federalists and Anti-Federalists disagree on?

Federalists supported a strong central government, while Anti-Federalists preferred more power for the states.

What were the Federalist Papers?

A series of essays written by John Jay, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton promoting the ratification of the Constitution.

What was George Washington's Farewell Address's key advice?

To avoid entangling alliances with foreign nations.

What was the significance of the XYZ Affair?

It escalated tensions between the U.S. and France during John Adams' presidency.

What established the precedent of Judicial Review?

The Supreme Court case of Marbury v. Madison.

What was the Louisiana Purchase?

A land deal that doubled the size of the U.S. but required a loose interpretation of the Constitution by Jefferson.

What was the Embargo Act of 1807?

A law that halted all U.S. trade with foreign nations, damaging the American economy.