1. Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution Creating a Nation

2. The Articles of Confederation The Articles of Confederation were a set of laws that which set up a system of government called a confederation A confederation is when there is a loose alliance of states with a weak central government. The Articles of Confederation failed to deal with the nation’s problems, because of a weak central government.

3. The U.S. Constitution Ratified in 1787, the U.S. Constitution addressed the main problems of the Articles of Confederation. A strong central government with three branches. Federalism – Shared power between the federal and state governments. A Bill of Rights – The first 10 amendments to the Constitution meant to protect citizens from the government.

4. Two Different Perspectives of Government Alexander Hamilton Hamilton believed in a strong central government. The well-educated, wealthy elite should have the power of decision making. Industry and commerce are the key to strong nation. These principles were embodied in the Federalist Party. Thomas Jefferson Jefferson believed in a nation with a small central government. He distrusted the rich. He favored strong state and local governments. Jefferson believed in society of farmer- citizens. These principles were embodied in the Republican Party.