Exploring the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation

What was the first constitution of the United States called?

• The Declaration of Independence

• The United States Constitution

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Bill of Rights

Who led the committee to draft the first plan for the government?

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Dickinson

How many states needed to approve the Articles of Confederation?

• 12

• 10

• 13

• 9

Which state was the last to ratify the Articles of Confederation?

• Rhode Island

• Maryland

• New York

• Virginia

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

• Strong central government

• Quick law-making process

• Ability to collect taxes easily

• Weak central government

How many states had to agree to make changes to the Articles?

• 13

• 11

• 9

• 7

What did the Articles of Confederation require for the approval of new laws?

• Approval by 7 states

• Approval by 9 states

• Approval by 11 states

• Approval by all 13 states

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the national government under the Articles?

• The Boston Tea Party

• The Declaration of Independence

• Shays' Rebellion

• The Battle of Yorktown

In what year did Shays' Rebellion take place?

• 1776

• 1781

• 1787

• 1786

What was the main reason for the dissatisfaction that led to Shays' Rebellion?

• Lack of representation in Congress

• Disputes with Native American tribes

• High taxes and debt

• Disagreements over land