the new republic

The New Republic and the Articles of Confederation

Background

  • The New Republic: Period following the American Revolution where the foundation of a new government was established.

  • Articles of Confederation: Initial governing document created by the colonies but was found to be too weak.

Key Events Leading to Constitutional Changes

  • Tyranny: Concerns over a strong central government leading to potential tyranny.

  • James Madison: Key figure advocating for a stronger federal government.

  • Annapolis Convention: A meeting aimed at addressing issues with the Articles of Confederation; led to the Constitutional Convention.

  • Shays’ Rebellion: An uprising led by farmers, including Daniel Shays, protesting against taxation and lack of compensation for military service.

    • Farmers were angry due to unpaid debts and were facing heavy taxes.

    • The rebellion involved taking over government buildings and destroying documents.

The Constitutional Convention (May 25 - September 17, 1787)

  • Purpose: To revise the Articles of Confederation but resulted in a completely new constitution.

    • Virginia Plan: Proposed by Madison, called for:

    • Complete rewriting of the Articles.

    • Establishment of a strong central government.

    • Three branches of government (executive, legislative, judicial).

    • Bicameral legislature based on population.

    • New Jersey Plan: Proposed by William Paterson, sought to:

    • Retain the Articles of Confederation with amendments.

    • Introduce a presidency and a judiciary.

    • Enhance Congressional powers, including imposing tariffs and taxes.

    • Maintain equal representation for each state (one vote per state).

    • Connecticut Compromise: Established a bicameral legislature containing:

    • The House of Representatives: Representation based on population.

    • The Senate: Two members from each state.

    • Other Compromises Reached:

    • Congress cannot overturn state laws.

    • Federal powers are to be "enumerated" (specifically listed).

    • Restrictions placed on states, such as the end of the transatlantic slave trade.

Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

  • Federalists:

    • Advocated for the ratification of the Constitution and a strong central government.

    • Believed the Articles were too weak and favored a government structure of "We the people."

    • Emphasized the need for a multiplicity of factions.

  • Anti-Federalists:

    • Opposed the Constitution fearing it would lead to consolidation of power and tyranny.

    • Believed in limited government: "The government that governs best governs least."

Early Financial Difficulties

  • 1789 Debt: The U.S. was in debt totaling $80 million at this time.

    • Breakdown of debts:

    • Bills of credit: $10 million owed to the U.S. itself.

    • $70 million owed to other creditors.

    • Calls for "repudiation" of debt.

Key Figures in the Early Republic

  • Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804):

    • Origin: Born in the West Indies; lacked historical ties to the 13 Colonies.

    • Goal: Establish U.S. as an economic power with a strong federal government.

    • Stance: Pro-manufacturing and pro-tariff, favored a banking system, leaned towards British alignment.

    • Proposed the First Bank of the U.S. located in Philadelphia, and advocated for the capital to be moved to the Maryland-Virginia border.

  • Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826):

    • Origin: From Virginia aristocracy, plantation owner, anti-Federalist.

    • Belief: A government should govern least and favored a nation of independent farmers rather than industrial factories.

    • Position: Anti-taxes and tariffs, pro-French sentiments, helped form the “Republican” Party.

  • James Madison (1751-1836):

    • Key architect of the Constitution and author of the Federalist Papers.

    • Concern: Balance federal power against state rights to avoid tyranny.

    • Advocated for the inclusion of a Bill of Rights.