U.S. Independence & Government – Review Sheet

Articles of Confederation

The first government of the U.S. 

It was weak because the states had too much power and the central government had little power.

Shays' Rebellion

An uprising in Massachusetts by farmers who were angry about taxes and debt. 

It showed how weak the Articles of Confederation were.

Constitution

The document that created the current government of the U.S. 

It establishes a strong central government with checks and balances.

Federalism

A system where power is divided between the national and state governments.

Federalists vs. Antifederalists

Federalists supported the Constitution and a strong central government. 

Antifederalists opposed the Constitution, fearing it gave the central government too much power.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, which protect individual rights like freedom of speech and religion.

Whiskey Rebellion

A protest by farmers in Pennsylvania against a federal tax on whiskey. 

It showed that the new government under the Constitution was strong enough to enforce its laws.

George Washington

Precedents That He Set: Traditions he started, like only serving two terms and staying neutral in foreign affairs.

Farewell Address: Washington's advice to the nation when he left office, warning against political parties and foreign entanglements.

Louisiana Purchase

The U.S. bought a large territory from France, doubling the size of the country.

War of 1812

A war between the U.S. and Britain, mainly over trade and impressment of sailors.

It confirmed U.S. independence.

Monroe Doctrine

A statement telling European powers to stay out of the Americas, declaring the U.S. as the dominant power in the Western Hemisphere.