Forming a New Government Study Guide
The Articles of Confederation
- Established a loose alliance between the states, emphasizing freedom and independence.
- Created a central government with a sole legislative branch known as Congress.
- Congress had the power to pass laws but lacked the authority to collect taxes necessary for government operations.
Shays' Rebellion
- Economic difficulties led to hardship among Massachusetts farmers, who struggled to pay property taxes.
- This unrest culminated in Shays' Rebellion, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
Northwest Ordinance of 1787
- The Ordinance mandated the division of the Northwest Territory into smaller territories.
- Outlined procedures for territories to attain statehood, ensuring eventual equality with the original 13 states.
Constitutional Convention (May 1787)
- Delegates gathered to revise the Articles of Confederation, initially aimed at making minor adjustments.
- Consensus emerged on the need for a stronger federal government.
Virginia Plan
- Proposed by larger states, suggesting representation in Congress be based on state population, granting them more influence than smaller states.
The Great Compromise
- Resulted in a bicameral legislature: two houses of Congress.
- Senate: Equal representation for every state.
- House of Representatives: Representation based on population, allowing larger states greater representation.
The Constitution
- Ratified to replace the Articles of Confederation, establishing a new framework for government.
- The Preamble outlines major goals:
- Establish justice
- Ensure domestic tranquility
- Provide for the common defense
- Promote the general welfare
- Secure the blessings of liberty
Federalists vs. Antifederalists
- Nationalists: Advocated for a strong national government; supporters became known as Federalists.
- Antifederalists: Opposed the Constitution unless a Bill of Rights was included. They were concerned about the limitation of individual freedoms.
- The Bill of Rights consists of the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, ensuring personal liberties by limiting government powers.
Ratification of the Constitution
- Federalists mitigated concerns by promising to add a Bill of Rights, which helped persuade reluctant states.
- By 1790, all 13 states ratified the Constitution, making it the supreme law.
- In February 1788, Massachusetts voted to agree with the Constitution.
Quote
- Benjamin Franklin encapsulated the new government’s responsibility by stating, "A republic, if you can keep it."
Study Skills Strategy
- Effective studying methods include:
- Using index cards for key concepts.
- Rereading lesson chapters to reinforce knowledge.
- Engaging in quizzes with parents to test comprehension.
- Students should document their study methods, duration, and parental verification for extra credit on assessments, reinforcing accountability and study habits.
