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

2. 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.
Changing Articles is onerous process – unanimous vote

3. Constitutional Convention: called to rewrite Articles Different Proposals
Virginia Plan (plan of Federalists)
New Jersey Plan
Connecticut Compromise

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

5. Branches of Government in the Constitution
Legislative – seen as most important
Executive
Judicial – least developed

6. AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION
Proposal Stage
2/3 Vote of both House and Senate OR
Convention called by Congress at the request of 2/3 of state legislatures
Ratification Stage
3/4 of state legislatures OR
3/4 of state ratifying conventions

7. “Democratizing” Amendments
13th Abolishes slavery
14th African Americans are citizens, equal protection, removes 3/5 compromise
15th Extends vote to African Americans
17th Direct election of Senators
19th Extends suffrage to women
24th Abolishes poll taxes
26th Extends suffrage to 18 yr olds