America's First Steps
What document established America's first government?
Articles of Confederation
What branch of government was established under the Articles?
Legislative branch
Name one problem that arose from the Articles of Confederation.
Lack of a standing army
What was the main goal of the Constitutional Convention?
To create a strong central government
Who were the primary supporters of the Constitution?
Federalists
What year were the Articles of Confederation approved?
1777
What was required for decisions under the Articles?
Unanimous vote
What was Shay's Rebellion?
A protest against economic injustices and lack of government power
Who is known as the "Father of the Constitution"?
James Madison
What did Anti-Federalists demand for ratification?
The Bill of Rights
What was the purpose of the Articles of Confederation?
o establish a "firm friendship" among the colonies.
Name one power that Congress did not have under the Articles.
The power to tax
What did the states do regarding their own currencies?
They made their own money
What was the Virginia Plan?
A proposal for a legislative branch based on population
Name one key figure who was an Anti-Federalist.
Patrick Henry
How many colonies needed to approve the Articles?
All 13 colonies
How many branches are in the U.S. government?
Three branches
Why was a standing army important?
To defend against external threats
What was the New Jersey Plan?
A proposal for a single legislative house with equal representation for each state
What was a common fear of Anti-Federalists?
Central power could lead to tyranny
What event led to the revision of the Articles?
The Constitutional Convention
What does the Executive branch do?
Carries out laws
Name a consequence of the lack of federal power.
Difficulty in collecting taxes
What compromise addressed the issue of slavery?
3/5th Compromise
What is the Bill of Rights?
The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual rights.