Political Foundations

 The Articles of Confederation gave Congress the power to admit new states to the union  This power was critical for the growth of the United States  After the Revolutionary War, the U.S. gained territory from Britain  This territory was between the original 13 colonies and the Mississippi River

The Northwest Territory

 The Northwest Ordinance was passed in 1787  The document now set forth the procedure for granting statehood to territories within the region  One of the most important documents passed under the Articles of Confederation  The document served as a model for granting future statehood

 Freedom of religion and worship  Right to a trial by jury if you are accused of a crime  No cruel or unusual punishment  No slavery was allowed in the territory’

The process is………..

 3-step process  Step 1  If the population is just a few settlers, you were given ◦ A governor chosen by Congress ◦ A secretary appointed by Congress ◦ Three judges appointed by Congress

 Step 2 ◦ When the population is 5,000 free men you can elect a two-part legislature ◦ The governor earned veto power ◦ A secretary and three judges were chosen ◦ Now representatives were able to be chosen as well

 Step 3  When the area has 60,000 free people the legislature can write a draft for a state constitution  The constitution is sent to Congress for approval  If approved you become a state

Ohio was the first one! The states created from the Northwest Territory