1. Warm-Up
Answer the following on your notes sheet “The Articles of Confederation”:
Imagine that you are creating your own government for a brand new country:
-How will your government be structured?
-Think about:
How laws will be created
What powers the government should have
What rights the people should have, etc.

2. The Articles of Confederation
After the American Revolution, the colonies are in need of a new government
The Articles of Confederation establish a “firm league of friendship” amongst the states
States retain their:
Ability to tax
Right to raise a militia
Sovereignty

3. Structure of Government
Congress (legislative branch) = creates the laws
No president (executive branch) to enforce the laws
No judicial branch to interpret the laws
Powers that the federal government has:
Borrow money
Make treaties
Declare war (but what do they need for that?)

4. What are some possible weaknesses that the Articles might have?
Problems?
What are some possible weaknesses that the Articles might have?

5. Strengths of the Articles of Confederation
Organization of the land in the West Land Ordinances: laws passed that organize the western territory Northwest Ordinance of 1787: called for the creation of five new territories (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin)

6. Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
The federal government is unable to tax or regulate commerce between the states The federal government does not have a standing army Many states have not paid off debt from the war The Articles of Confederation are difficult to amend (change) No executive or judicial branch

7. Story Time
Imagine that you are a colonist living in Massachusetts. America has just declared its independence but there are a lot of problems with the new government under the Articles of Confederation. Write a letter to the newspaper explaining why you think the government should change. Focus on the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Consider using: -Shays’ Rebellion -International respect for America -Standing Army -Ability to tax