Foundations of the United States Government

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Articles of Confederation

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The first constitution of the United States (1781-1789) that created a weak central government with most power remaining with individual states. It had many weaknesses, including no power to tax or regulate trade between states.

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Constitutional Convention

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The meeting held in Philadelphia in 1787 where delegates from 12 states gathered to revise the Articles of Confederation but instead created an entirely new Constitution.

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Delegates

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Representatives chosen by each state to attend the Constitutional Convention. Famous delegates included George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton.

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Compromise

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An agreement where each side gives up something to reach a solution everyone can accept. Essential for the Constitutional Convention.

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Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)

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Created a two-house Congress: House of Representatives (based on state population) and Senate (equal representation for all states).

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Three-Fifths Compromise

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Enslaved people would count as three-fifths of a person for taxation and representation in Congress.

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Federalists

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Supporters of a strong central government and the new Constitution. Key figures: Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay.

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Ratification

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Official approval of the Constitution. Required nine of thirteen states. First ten amendments added to satisfy Anti-Federalist concerns.

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Separation of Powers

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Division of government into three branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

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Checks and Balances

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System allowing each branch of government to limit the power of the others, ensuring no single branch dominates.