1. U.S. Constitution
Goals: Interpret the intentions of the preamble Explain the viewpoints of the Federalists and Anti-Federalists Describe how the Constitution limits the powers of government through checks and balances.

2. Constitution
This is a framework or skeleton that sets rules for government

3. Anti-Federalists vs. Federalists
The Anti-Federalists did not want to ratify the Constitution.
Wanted States rights
Federalists:
Supported the new constitution.
Wanted a strong national government.

4. 1st and 2nd Continental Congress’
Legislature during the Revolutionary War

5. Articles of Confederation
The first constitution
Each state was like it’s own country

6. Weaknesses of Articles
No executive
No judicial branch, so no separation of powers
No tax base , no way to pay off war debt
No national currency
No national military
Unicameral legislature
Needed unanimous approval to change Articles.

7. Shay’s Rebellion
Uprising of farmers upset over border skirmishes with natives
Articles provided no central power to deal with such a rebellion
Over 1000 arrested, 4 killed.

8. Philadelphia Convention
Aka constitutional convention.
Delegates met to revise the Articles of Confederation.

9. Constitutional Convention
After the Annapolis Convention, the states, with the exception of Rhode Island, elected delegates to the Constitutional Convention, which finally began deliberations on May 25, 1787.
The Convention lasted until September 17, 1787.

10. Great Compromise

11. Just like all other conflicts, they settle with compromise
Great Compromise
A compromise between large and small populated states (VA & NJ Plans):
a two house legislature—
one house equal representation,
other house proportional
3/5 Compromise
A compromise to get the southern states to agree to the Great Compromise.
The southern states would not agree to the plan unless they could count their slaves under their population. The northern states objected counting slaves.
A compromise was made to count each slave as 3/5th a person for proportional representation. Also, to build a U.S. capital in the southern state of Virginia.

12. Notes: The Constitutional Convention #7
Virginia Plan
A proposal to change the Articles of Confederation government. This plan favored states with large populations. It called for the following:
1. A Chief Executive
2. Court System
3. Number of people in congress determined by population – Proportional Representation
(larger states get to send more representatives)
New Jersey Plan
A proposal favoring smaller state populations. Called for the following change to the Virginia Plan:
equal representation— Each state sends one person regardless of how many people live there.

13. Notes: The Constitutional Convention #7
Great Compromise
A compromise between large and small populated states (VA & NJ Plans):
a two house legislature—
one house equal representation,
other house proportional

14. Notes: The U.S. Constitution #8
The Preamble
In Order to Form a More Perfect Union
Articles of Confederation were flawed and needed to be changed. The Constitution is not perfect—it can be changed!
Establish Justice
Articles of Confederation did not have a Federal court system. We need courts to protect individuals and states.
Insure Domestic Tranquility
The Federal government needs to help protect us from being harmed by other citizens or even the state in which we live.
Provide for the Common Defense
The Federal government must have a strong armed forces to protect us from other countries.
Promote the General Welfare
The federal government needs to help people pursue life, liberty, and happiness.
Secure the Blessings of Liberty
The federal government needs to protect peoples individual freedoms.

15. Notes: The U.S. Constitution #10

16. How the Constitution Limits Power of the Government
Forbids bills of attainder
Protects against ex post facto laws
Can’t tax exports
Various Checks and balances

17. Amendment The way to change the Constitution.
The Founders wanted to create a flexible system that would change with the times and circumstances.

18. First 10 Amendments = Bill of Rights
1st – Freedom of assembly, petition, press, religion, and speech. 2nd – Gun rights 3rd – Quartering soldiers 4th – Search and seizure 5th – Trial by jury and self incrimination 6th – Speedy public trial 7th – Trial by jury in civil cases 8th – Cruel and unusual punishment 9th- Unlisted rights are also included 10th – Anything not listed is reserved to the States, and the People.

19. Rule of Law
The written law will govern the land, no exceptions.