State Constitutions and the Articles of Confederation

Flashcards covering key concepts related to state constitutions and the Articles of Confederation.

Constitution

A document that sets out the basic laws, principles, organization, and processes of a government.

Bill of Rights

A list of freedoms that a government promises to protect.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of American government adopted in 1777 that created a loose alliance of independent states.

Strengths of the Articles of Confederation

Allowed states to make decisions for themselves and prevented federal government from gaining too much power.

Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation

Established a weak central government which limited the ability to enforce laws and provide for national defense.

Voting Requirements in Early States

To vote in early state governments, one had to be a white male, over age 21, and often required to own property or pay certain taxes.

Massachusetts Constitution of 1780

Declared the primary purpose of state government is to protect the natural rights of its inhabitants.

Shays' Rebellion

An uprising in 1786 that highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and prompted calls for changes in the government.

Federalists

Those who supported a strong central government and the ratification of the Constitution.

Antifederalists

Those who opposed a strong central government and the ratification of the Constitution, advocating for the protection of individual rights.