11.2 Constitutional Foundations (1783-1824)

What were the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation included the lack of a strong central government, inability to levy taxes, and difficulties in regulating trade and enforcing laws.

What were the major compromises in creating the Constitution?

The major compromises in creating the Constitution included the Great Compromise, which established a bicameral legislature, and the Three-Fifths Compromise, which determined how slaves would be counted for representation and taxation.

What were the key differences between Federalists and Anti Federalists?

Federalists: Supported strong federal government, Favored Constitution, and is Led by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay

Anti-Federalists: Feared too much federal power, Wanted stronger state rights, and Demanded Bill of Rights

What precedents did George Washington establish as first president?

Two term limit (until FDR)

Cabinet System

Neutrality in foreign affairs

Farewell Address warnings

What was Hamilton’s Economic Plan?

National Bank

Federal assumption of state debts

Protective tariffs

Support for manufacturing

Sound public credit system

What was the significance of Marbury v. Madison (1803)?

Established judicial review

Gave Supreme Court power to declare laws unconstitutional

Strengthened federal judiciary

Set important legal precedent

What was significant about the Election of 1800?

First peaceful transfer to power between opposing parties

Jefferson defeated Adams

Demonstrated stability of American democracy

Led to 12th Amendment (changed electoral process)

What were the key Supreme Court cases under Chief Justice Marshall?

Marbury v. Madison (judicial review)

McCulloch v. Maryland (federal power over states)

Gibbons v. Ogden (federal regulation of commerce)

All strengthened federal power

What rights were protected in the Bill of Righs?

Freedom of speech, religion, press

Right to bear arms

Protection against unreasonable search

Right to fair trial

States’ rights (10th Amendment)

What were the key principles of the Constitution?

Separation of powers

Checks and balances

Federalism (divided power between states and federal government)

Popular sovereignty

Limited government

What was the significance of the Louisiana Purchase (1803)?

Doubled size of United States

Purchased from France for $15 million

Gave U.S. control of Mississippi River

Strengthened American nationalism

Raised constitutional questions about presidential power

What were the main effects of the War of 1812?

Increased American nationalism

End of Federalist Party

Growth of American manufacturing

Demonstrated military weakness

Led to Era of Good feelings

Reinforced American independence