Life After the American Revolution War Students Write what's in green

Looking at the Big PICTURE The leaders of the NEW U.S. work to define the powers of the government.

The Big Picture Britain does not respect America and ignored Treaty of Paris 1873 Continental Congress is in charge States afraid of giving too much power to a single ruler b/c of their experience with Britain- state gov’t States are sovereign and operate like small countries U.S. is in debt after the war- Problems with Britain(#1 haters) and Spain U.S. Gov’t is super weak!! Students Write what's in green

What’s Really Happening?? Each state created their own constitutions- led by governor; Rhode Island was reluctant but finally agreed. Pennsylvania had no governor but 12 council members Most states established. a two- house, or bicameral, legislature to prevent abuse of power and keep power in hands of ppl. Must be 21, white male, pay taxes and own property to vote. Students Write what's in green

What’s Really Happening?? A republic was formed- most liked a weak central gov’t States could not agree on the organization or the powers of the new gov’t 1780’s all states gave up land west of Appalachians except Georgia The Confederation gov’t could conduct foreign affairs, maintain armed forces, borrow money and issue currency

NW Ordinance of 1787

What’s Really Happening?? American money depreciated The war left the US in serious debt Robert Morris Import Tax- wanted to tax 5% on imported goods It did not pass

What’s Really Going on?? Issues with Brits Issues with Spain Not respect treaty Not withdraw troops from land Block trade with West Indies and other British markets Brits wanted loyalists to be paid for property that was taken during the war Issues with Spain Claimed Florida and land west of Mississippi River Halted American expansion into territory it claimed Closed lower Mississippi River

Vocabulary Constitution- a plan of government Bicameral- a two- house legislature Republic- a gov’t in which citizens rule thru elected representatives Ordinance- a law Depreciate- to fall in value