1. Journal
What do you think people could do to reduce the negative impacts of gangs in their communities?

2. The Critical Period
American Government

3. The Articles of Confederation
First proposed in 1777, finally went into effect in when Maryland signed.
Established a “firm league of friendship” amongst the states.
Each State would have one vote, regardless of population.
No president, just a presiding officer. Why?

4. Weaknesses of the Articles
Only one vote, regardless of population. Rhode Island and Connecticut could hold up the whole process.
Congress could not levy taxes.
Congress could not regulate commerce. Trade wars between the States.
No executive power to enforce acts of Congress.
No national court system.
A 9/13 majority required to pass all laws
Amendments needed to be agreed upon by every State.

5. A Need for a Stronger Government
By 1787, constant bickering between the States illustrated a need for a stronger central government.
A convention was held in Philadelphia to revise the Articles of Confederation.
12 out of the 13 States sent representatives. Who was the only hold out? Rhode Island

6. The Framers Name given to the delegates sent to the convention.
Average was 42.
Included:
George Washington
Benjamin Franklin
James Madison
Thomas Jefferson
Alexander Hamilton
George Mason

7. Two Plans for New Government
Virginia Plan
New Jersey Plan
Three separate branches
A bicameral legislature
Representation would be based on population or money given to the government.
A more powerful central government.
Unicameral Congress
The states would be equally represented.
A dual presidency
Weaker central government.

8. Compromises The Connecticut Compromise: Three-Fifths Compromise:
Bicameral Congress- House of Representatives based on population; Senate would have equal representation.
Three-Fifths Compromise:
Southerners wanted slaves to count in the population so that they could receive more representation in the House.
Slaves would be counted as 3/5 of a person.
Commerce and Slave Trade Compromise:
Congress could not tax any export from a State.
Congress could not interfere with the slave trade for another twenty years.