1. Topic: Evaluating the merits and deficiencies of the Articles of Confederation
Do Now:
The decade of is often called “the critical period” in American politics. Why do you think it is referred to this way? Explain.

2. Origins of America’s “First Government”
Continental Congress was originally nothing more than a group of “ambassadors”
No real authority over the 13 colonies
1777: Articles of Confederation written
Western lands problem
1781: ratified by 13 states

3. The Central Government
“The Critical Period”
13 states linked together to face common problems
No executive branch
Courts as a state prerogative
Legislative branch dominated the law-making process
Where does sovereignty lie?

4. The Unicameral Legislature
Congress:
Unicameral
1 state, 1 vote
9/13 vote to approve bills
Unanimous vote for amendments
Congress could not levy taxes or regulate trade
Could only “ask” for troops
Makes all foreign treaties
State power unimpeded
States controlled trade
Printed (coined) money

5. Territorial Ordinances
Land Ordinance 1785:
Great lakes region lands be sold to pay war debts
Surveying lands
Divided into townships
Each must have a public school
Orderly migration to new lands
Northwest Ordinance 1787:
Rules on how territories become states
60,000  request for statehood
No slavery in northwest

6. The Articles of Confederation
Strengths
Weaknesses

7. Conclusion
Based on today’s lesson, how would you rate the Articles of Confederation (on a scale of 1-10; 10 being the best)? Explain your reasoning in 3-4 sentences.