(1379) The ARTICLES of CONFEDERATION [APUSH Review Unit 3 Topic 7 (3.7)] Period 3: 1754-1800

Overview of the Articles of Confederation

• The Articles of Confederation were the first governing document of the United States, ratified in 1781.

• They emerged from the need for a framework to organize political authority after independence from Britain on July 4, 1776.

• The Articles were influenced by previous state constitutions, reflecting similar emphasis on legislative power.

Influence of State Constitutions

• Prior to the Articles, state governments established their own constitutions during and before the Revolution.

• These state constitutions prioritized legislative power, ensuring government accountability to the people.

• The framers of the Articles mirrored this focus by placing significant power within the legislative branch at the national level.

Structure of the Articles of Confederation

• The Articles did not establish an executive branch or a national supreme court; all power rested with the legislature.

Legislative Power

• Each state had one vote in the legislature, regardless of its size or population.

• Amendments to the Articles required a super-majority: 9 out of 13 states had to agree.

• Each state held veto power over any changes to the Articles, making alterations extremely difficult.

Challenges Faced by the Confederation

• Westward Migration Issues

  • As settlers moved westward, conflicts arose with Native Americans and illegal squatters.

  • The federal government passed the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 to manage these issues.

The Northwest Ordinance of 1787

• Significant aspects of the Northwest Ordinance:

  • Abolished slavery in the Northwest Territory.

  • Provided a structured process for territories to gain populations and achieve statehood.

  • Promoted public education and protection of private property.

Economic Struggles and Shays's Rebellion

• By the mid-1780s, the American economy was in turmoil, particularly affecting farmers.

• Many veterans returning from the Revolutionary War found themselves in debt and facing inflation.

• Farmers petitioned for relief but received no support, leading to increased frustration.

Shays's Rebellion

• Led by Daniel Shays in Massachusetts, this rebellion involved a militia of around one thousand disgruntled farmers.

• The Massachusetts militia quelled the revolt quickly; however, this highlighted the weaknesses inherent in the Articles of Confederation.

• The lack of a national president or federal army to respond to crises was glaringly exposed during this rebellion.

Conclusion

• Shays's Rebellion was pivotal in demonstrating the need for a stronger federal government and ultimately prompted discussions to replace the Articles of Confederation with a new Constitution.