U.S. Constitution, Federalism, and Early Republic Key Concepts

What did the Articles of Confederation create?

A weak national government that lacked the power to tax or regulate commerce.

What event exposed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Shays' Rebellion (1786-87).

When did the Constitutional Convention meet?

In Philadelphia in 1787.

What did the Great Compromise establish?

A bicameral legislature with representation by population in the House and equal representation in the Senate.

What was the Three-Fifths Compromise?

It counted enslaved people as 3/5 of a person for representation and taxation.

What system did the Constitution establish?

A system of federalism, dividing power between national and state governments, and a separation of powers among three branches.

What does the Supremacy Clause state?

Federal law is superior to state law.

What are the Bill of Rights?

The first ten amendments added to protect individual rights.

Who wrote the Federalist Papers?

Hamilton, Madison, and Jay.

What did Federalists want?

A stronger central government.

What did Anti-Federalists argue for?

Stronger state power and a Bill of Rights.

How did the Constitution address slavery?

It allowed slavery through the Three-Fifths Compromise and did not ban the slave trade until 1808.

Who was the first president of the United States?

George Washington.

What was part of Hamilton's financial plan?

Federal assumption of state debts, creation of a national bank, and excise taxes.

What was the Whiskey Rebellion?

A resistance by farmers in Pennsylvania against the whiskey tax, showing federal enforcement of laws.

What did Washington's Proclamation of Neutrality declare?

Neutrality in European conflicts.

What did Jay's Treaty address?

Relations with Britain.

What did Pinckney's Treaty secure?

Navigation rights on the Mississippi with Spain.

What was the XYZ Affair?

French agents demanded bribes, leading to the Quasi-War.

What were the Alien and Sedition Acts?

Laws passed by Federalists to silence opposition.

What were the major points of Washington's Farewell Address?

Avoid political parties, stay neutral in foreign wars, and avoid permanent alliances.

What is the relevance of the Alien and Sedition Acts today?

They highlight the tension between national security and free speech.