The Articles of Confederation Explained: U.S. History Review

The video explores why the Articles of Confederation failed, highlighting their weaknesses due to a lack of federal power and strong state autonomy. It explains federalism, the division of power between federal and state governments, and discusses the Articles' structure, including the Northwest Ordinance as a positive aspect. The video also covers the inflexibility of the Articles and the impact of Shay's Rebellion, which led to the drafting of a new constitution.

What was a major reason for the failure of the Articles of Confederation?

• The Articles were too flexible.

• There was too much taxation.

• The states had too much power.

• The federal government was too strong.

What does the concept of federalism involve?

• A monarchy system.

• Division of power between federal and state governments.

• A single centralized government.

• Complete independence of states.

Under the Articles of Confederation, how many branches of government existed?

• Four

• One

• Two

• Three

What was the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?

• A law to establish a national bank.

• A military alliance treaty.

• A tax reform act.

• A procedure for territories to become states.

Which of the following was NOT a structural weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

• No state governments

• No ability to tax

• No court system

• No president

Why was the Articles of Confederation considered inflexible?

• It required a simple majority to change.

• It had too many branches of government.

• It allowed states to change laws independently.

• It required unanimous consent to amend.

What was Shay's Rebellion primarily about?

• A movement to support the British monarchy.

• A call for more state independence.

• A demand for more federal power.

• A protest against high taxes and lack of representation.

What was the outcome of Shay's Rebellion?

• It highlighted the need for a stronger federal government.

• It was a successful overthrow of the government.

• It resulted in the immediate drafting of the new Constitution.

• It led to the strengthening of the Articles.

What was the purpose of the Annapolis Convention?

• To revise the Articles of Confederation.

• To declare independence from Britain.

• To elect a new president.

• To establish a national bank.

What was a significant fear that arose from Shay's Rebellion?

• The fear of foreign invasion.

• The fear of a strong federal government.

• The fear of losing state independence.

• The fear of mob rule and lack of federal power.