Unit 3.3 - 3.4 Vocab v2

What was Shays’ Rebellion and its significance?

A 1786–87 farmer uprising led by Daniel Shays against taxes and debts; though suppressed, it showed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and sparked debate on stronger government.

What was the Virginia Plan?

James Madison’s proposal at the Constitutional Convention for a new constitution with representation based on population, favoring large states.

What was the New Jersey Plan?

Proposed equal representation in Congress, one vote per state, favoring small states.

What was the Great Compromise?

Agreement creating a bicameral legislature: equal representation in the Senate (2 per state) and population-based in the House; included the 3/5 Compromise.

Who were the Federalists and what did they believe?

Leaders like James Madison and Alexander Hamilton supported the Constitution, strong central government, and had support from the wealthy/upper class.

What were the Federalist Papers?

85 essays by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay to persuade Americans to ratify the Constitution.

Who were the Anti-Federalists and what did they believe?

Leaders like Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry opposed the Constitution, favored strong state governments, and wanted a Bill of Rights to protect individual freedoms.

What is the Bill of Rights?

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution, added in 1791, protecting freedoms like speech, press, religion, and rights of the accused.

Who were the Hessians?

German mercenaries hired by Britain to fight in the American Revolution.

What happened at the Battle of Trenton (1776)?

Washington crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night, surprised the Hessians, and boosted morale and supplies for the Continental Army.

What happened at the Battle of Saratoga (1777)?

American victory that convinced France to ally with the colonies, turning point of the war.

What happened at the Battle of Yorktown (1781)?

British General Cornwallis surrendered to American and French forces, ending major fighting and leading to peace in 1783.

What is Popular Sovereignty?

Principle that government power comes from the consent of the people.

What were the Articles of Confederation and their weaknesses?

America’s first government; gave states one vote each but denied Congress power to tax, regulate trade, or enforce laws, making it weak.

What was Republican Motherhood?

The belief that women should raise virtuous, educated citizens; opened education opportunities for women but kept them politically limited.