Background to U.S. Constitution Declaration of Independence Articles of Confederation: Why Replace?

Weaknesses in Articles of Confederation Congress can’t tax States can limit commerce among themselves States could issue own currency Exec not independent of Cong. No national judicial system Amendments to Articles needed unanimous approval

Constitution: Different Proposals Virginia Plan New Jersey Plan Connecticut Compromise

Principles of the Constitution Republicanism Federalism Separation of Powers Checks and Balances

Branches of Government in the Constitution Legislative Executive Judicial