Articles and Constitution
What was one weakness of the Articles of Confederation?
The national government was too weak to enforce laws or collect taxes.
After the Revolutionary War, what did George Washington hope to do?
He hoped to retire from military command and return to Mount Vernon.
What major issue first divided the country into political parties?
Hamilton’s Financial Plan, especially the creation of a national bank and handling of state debts.
Which nation controlled Louisiana and New Orleans before the U.S. bought it?
France
How did the Constitution fix the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
It created a stronger federal government with the power to tax, enforce laws, and regulate trade.
How did the first three presidents (Washington, Adams, Jefferson) shape the new nation?
Washington set presidential precedents and established the Cabinet.
Adams handled foreign conflicts with France.
Jefferson expanded the nation through the Louisiana Purchase and supported agrarian democracy.
What were the main points of disagreement between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans?
Federalists: strong central government, supported industry and commerce, pro-British.
Democratic-Republicans: strong state governments, favored farmers/agrarian society, pro-French.
What was the main accomplishment of the Corps of Discovery?
Explored and mapped the Louisiana Territory and established relations with Native Americans.
Why did some Americans support the Constitution while others opposed it?
Federalists supported it for a stronger central government; Anti-Federalists opposed it because they feared it gave too much power to the federal government and reduced state power.
What warning did George Washington give in his Farewell Address?
He warned against political parties and foreign alliances, believing they could divide or weaken the nation.
Which political party did John Adams belong to?
Federalist
Who led the Lewis and Clark expedition?
Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.
Compare the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution. Which system was better and why?
Articles = weak federal government; Constitution = strong federal government with checks and balances. Constitution was more effective for governing the U.S.
How did John Adams respond to tensions with France?
He avoided war despite the XYZ Affair, strengthened the navy, and enforced the Alien and Sedition Acts to maintain national security.
Why did the brawl in Congress happen during Adams’ presidency?
Showed the growing tension and polarization between political parties in the U.S. government.
What was the impact of the Embargo Act during Jefferson’s presidency?
Hurt the U.S. economy; failed to change European interference with American trade.
Who is known as the “Father of the Constitution,” and why?
James Madison, because he contributed the most to the structure and content of the document.
Who was John Adams’ vice president and political opponent?
Thomas Jefferson
What Constitutional right did the Alien and Sedition Acts limit?
Limited freedom of speech and press.
What were the causes and effects of the Louisiana Purchase?
Causes: Desire for New Orleans port, western expansion, and land security.
Effects: Doubled the size of the U.S., encouraged westward expansion, strengthened federal government, and increased Jefferson’s popularity.