Understanding the Articles of Confederation and Shays' Rebellion

The video explores the formation of the United States' first government under the Articles of Confederation, highlighting its structure, powers, and limitations. It discusses the successes and failures of the Confederation Congress, including its inability to enforce laws or collect taxes. The video also covers Shays' Rebellion, a significant event that exposed the weaknesses of the Articles and led to calls for government reform.

What was one of the main challenges faced by the new government after gaining independence from Britain?

• Deciding on a national language

• Forming a government that all 13 states could agree on

• Choosing a national bird

• Establishing a national religion

Who was the primary architect of the Articles of Confederation?

• John Dickinson

• George Washington

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

What was the main goal of the Founding Fathers when creating the Articles of Confederation?

• To create a strong central authority

• To replicate the British government

• To limit the powers of the national government

• To establish a monarchy

What was a key feature of the government under the Articles of Confederation?

• A powerful executive branch

• Equal representation for each state

• A national court system

• A strong central government

Which of the following was a success of the Confederation Congress?

• Creating a national army

• Regulating interstate commerce

• Signing the Treaty of Paris

• Establishing a national currency

What was a major weakness of the Confederation Congress?

• It could not declare war

• It had no power to tax

• It could not sign treaties

• It had too much power over the states

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the Confederation Congress?

• The Battle of Yorktown

• Shays' Rebellion

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The Boston Tea Party

What was one of the demands of the farmers during Shays' Rebellion?

• Reduction of military forces

• Immediate payment of all debts

• Issuance of paper currency

• Abolition of state taxes

Why was Congress unable to quell Shays' Rebellion?

• Lack of support from the states

• Opposition from the President

• No money to fund a militia

• Interference from foreign powers

What was a long-term effect of Shays' Rebellion?

• Strengthening of the Articles of Confederation

• A return to British rule

• A push for government reform

• Increased power for state governments