Exploring the Foundations of the U.S. Constitution

The video explores the challenges faced by the United States under the Articles of Confederation, highlighting issues like Shays' Rebellion. It covers the Constitutional Convention, where delegates debated and compromised on key issues, including state representation and slavery. The video concludes with the ratification of the Constitution and the inauguration of George Washington as the first President, marking the beginning of a new government.

What was a major flaw of the Articles of Confederation?

• Lack of a national army

• Too strong a central government

• Inability to levy taxes

• All states had equal representation

What was the main goal of the Constitutional Convention?

• To elect a president

• To draft a new constitution

• To amend the Articles of Confederation

• To declare independence from Britain

What did the delegates decide about the Articles of Confederation?

• To make minor amendments

• To replace them with a new constitution

• To keep them as is

• To strengthen state powers

Who is known for their support of a strong central government?

• James Madison

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• Alexander Hamilton

What was a significant issue debated at the Constitutional Convention?

• The national bird

• Representation in Congress

• The capital location

• The official language

What was a key feature of the new government structure?

• Monarchy

• Single legislative body

• Checks and balances

• Direct democracy

What compromise was made regarding slavery in the Constitution?

• Immediate abolition

• Freedom for all born after 1800

• Three-fifths compromise

• Slavery was not mentioned

What was the stance of southern states on slavery during the convention?

• No official stance

• Gradual emancipation

• Immediate abolition

• Continuation of slavery

Who was elected as the first President of the United States?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• James Madison

How did Benjamin Franklin symbolize the outcome of the convention?

• A stormy cloud

• A full moon

• A rising sun

• A setting sun