Articles of Confederation
What were the Articles of Confederation?
The first government of the United States.
What phrase begins the Preamble?
"We the people"
How many years do senators serve in a single term?
6
How many amendments are in the Bill of Rights?
10
Who was named president of the Constitutional Convention?
George Washington
Who is “We the people”?
Every U.S. citizen.
How many terms can a U.S. president be elected to?
2
Which amendment protects freedom of speech?
First
What were two major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Congress could not impose taxes. Each state only had 1 vote despite population size. Congress lacked the power to enforce laws. Unanimous vote was needed to make any amendments.
Name two goals stated in the Preamble.
Form a more perfect union. Promote general welfare. Provide for the common defense. Establish justice. Secure the blessings of liberty. Insure domestic tranquility.
Who is known as the "Father of the Constitution"?
James Madison
What does the Eighth Amendment prohibit?
Cruel and unusual punishment.
In 1787, delegates appointed from the first 13 states met in Philadelphia to revise the existing government. Where did they meet?
Independence Hall
What does the word "posterity" mean in the context of the Preamble?
Future generations of Americans.
What are the three branches of government established by the Constitution?
Legislative, Executive, Judicial
What does the Fourth Amendment protect against?
Unreasonable searches and seizures.
What was the name of the rebellion that highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation in 1786?
Shays' Rebellion
What is the purpose of the Preamble?
To introduce the Constitution and state its purposes.
What did the “Great Compromise” accomplish?
Created two chambers of Congress - Senate and House
The government can take private property for public use as long as the owner is paid a fair price. This is known as what?
Eminent domain.