Early Government

Articles of Confederation What does the word Articles mean? –A distinct part of a document (contract) dealing with a single subject.

What does Confederation mean? A group of states united for a common purpose

Colonial Experience How did the Colonial Experience shape our first Government? What in their lives shaped the decisions of the Articles of Confederation? What were some of these experiences that shaped the Articles of Confederation?

Experiences Hated the KING Taxation w/o representation So…a weak central government was created to avoid having the govt. get out of hand w/power

Articles of Confederation PURPOSE 1.Form a permanent union of the 13 states. 2.Recognition by European nations. 3.Stabilize prices & currency.

Articles of Confederation 1st Government of the US Strengths Send and receive foreign leaders Won the American Revolutionary War Named the nation Declare War/Make Peace Treaty of Paris Borrow money Northwest Ordinance

Articles of Confederation Weaknesses Unicameral Legislation (one house  Congress) –2/3 majority needed to pass laws No control over Interstate trade No ability to collect taxes – money became worthless b/c nation was in deep debt –Had war debt, including the pay for soldiers….could not pay No Chief Executive (President) No National Judicial Branch (Supreme Court) 13 of 13 colonies/states needed to amend document No set currency

Shay’s Rebellion How did this Massachusetts farmer help create a new government? ( ) Central government proved to be to weak. Washington “what a triumph for our enemies… to find we are incapable of governing ourselves ”

Constitutional Convention called Annapolis, Maryland states showed up for this convention. Cancelled 1787 Philadelphia May 28, Delegates from 12 of the 13 states showed up (Rhode Island stayed home)

Philadelphia What needed to be repaired? Who were some of the key people at the Convention ? How long did the debate last? What do you know about your own government?

Famous Delegates George Washington- Chairman Ben Franklin James Madison: “Father of the Constitution” Alexander Hamilton

Common Traits All Men All White Well Educated Military Backgrounds Political Experience 35 Lawyers