Articles of Confederation and Constitution

The video covers America's transition to independence, the formation of a confederation, and the drafting of the Articles of Confederation. It highlights the weaknesses of the Articles, such as the lack of power to tax or enforce laws. The video also discusses land claims and the Northwest Ordinances, which organized territorial expansion. Shay's Rebellion exposed the need for a stronger government, leading to the Philadelphia Convention and the creation of a new Constitution.

What was the primary question facing America after gaining independence?

• How to maintain British ties

• How to increase trade with Europe

• What type of government to establish

• How to expand westward

What was a major flaw of the Articles of Confederation?

• It imposed heavy taxes on states

• It allowed for too much federal power

• It had no provision for a national army

• It required unanimous consent for amendments

Why was there no executive branch under the Articles of Confederation?

• Lack of qualified leaders

• Fear of a strong central government

• Preference for a parliamentary system

• Desire for a monarchy

Which issue delayed the ratification of the Articles of Confederation?

• Conflicts over land claims

• Disagreements over trade policies

• Opposition to a central government

• Lack of a national currency

What did the Northwest Ordinance of 1785 establish?

• A national army

• A new national currency

• A federal tax system

• A system for selling land

What was a requirement for a territory to become a state under the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?

• A majority vote in Congress

• Approval from neighboring states

• A constitution that forbids slavery

• A population of 100,000

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the federal government under the Articles of Confederation?

• The Boston Tea Party

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• Shay's Rebellion

• The War of 1812

What was the main outcome of the Philadelphia Convention?

• The establishment of a national bank

• The strengthening of the Articles of Confederation

• The decision to remain under British rule

• The drafting of a new Constitution

Who was known as the 'Father of the Constitution'?

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• Alexander Hamilton

• James Madison

Which delegate was the oldest at the Philadelphia Convention?

• George Mason

• Benjamin Franklin

• Alexander Hamilton

• John Adams