Understanding the U.S. Constitution

The video explains the process of how the U.S. Constitution was signed by the Framers on September 17, 1787, and the subsequent steps needed for its ratification. It highlights the role of Congress in sending the Constitution to the states for approval, the debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists, and the requirement of nine states to ratify the document. The video also covers the eventual joining of key states like Virginia and New York, and the addition of a Bill of Rights, which addressed concerns about individual freedoms. The process set a precedent for peaceful government formation and continues to influence discussions on national power.

When did the Framers of the Constitution sign the final document?

• January 1, 1790

• July 4, 1776

• September 17, 1787

• December 25, 1789

What did Congress do with the proposed Constitution after receiving it from the Framers?

• Rejected it outright

• Sent it to the states for ratification

• Amended it immediately

• Ignored it

How did each state decide whether to adopt the new Constitution?

• By holding a special convention

• Through a national referendum

• By a decision from the governor

• Through a vote in the state legislature

What were the anonymous newspaper articles supporting the Constitution called?

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Federalist Papers

• The Declaration of Independence

• The Anti-Federalist Papers

Who opposed a powerful central government and advocated for a Bill of Rights?

• Federalists

• Monarchists

• Confederates

• Anti-Federalists

What was required for the new Constitution to take effect?

• Approval from the President

• Unanimous approval from all states

• Ratification by nine states

• Approval from the Supreme Court

What was the main concern of the Anti-Federalists regarding the new Constitution?

• It did not include a Bill of Rights

• It did not establish a monarchy

• It gave too much power to the states

• It created a powerful central government

Which two key states joined the Union after the necessary nine states had ratified the Constitution?

• Ohio and Pennsylvania

• Florida and Georgia

• Virginia and New York

• California and Texas

When did North Carolina and Rhode Island join the Union?

• Before the Constitution was ratified

• After the federal Bill of Rights was proposed

• Immediately after the Constitution was signed

• They never joined

What significant event happened in June 1788?

• The Articles of Confederation were adopted

• The Declaration of Independence was signed

• The necessary nine states ratified the Constitution

• The Bill of Rights was proposed