1. Aim #6: Why did our first system of government fail? Do Now: Reading “The Articles of Confederation”- Complete questions that follow Homework: Complete multiple choice questions on The Articles of Confederation

2. The Articles of Confederation (1781- 1788) Our nation’s first constitution Our nation’s first constitution Confederation: System of government where the national government has limited power, and the state governments have great power. Confederation: System of government where the national government has limited power, and the state governments have great power. Discuss: Why would the former colonists be afraid of creating a national government with too much power? Discuss: Why would the former colonists be afraid of creating a national government with too much power?

3. Government Under the Articles of Confederation National government consisted of a one-house lawmaking body called Congress. National government consisted of a one-house lawmaking body called Congress. Each state had equal representation in congress. Each state had equal representation in congress. Powers: Declare war, make peace, and conduct foreign affairs. Powers: Declare war, make peace, and conduct foreign affairs. Could not collect taxes. Could not collect taxes.

4. Strengths and Weaknesses Strengths: Strengths: Declare War Declare War Make Treaties Make Treaties Manage Indian affairs Manage Indian affairs Established post offices Established post offices Coin money Coin money Borrow Money Borrow Money Admit New States Admit New States Weaknesses: Foreign nations did not respect our territory Congress could only ask the states for money Continental Money- worthless Trade could not be controlled No National Court system No Executive Leader (president)

5. Northwest Ordinance A plan for governing the western lands between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River. A plan for governing the western lands between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River. Outlined the process for the admission of new states. Outlined the process for the admission of new states.

6. http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/road- constitutional-convention#sect-activities http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/road- constitutional-convention#sect-activities http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/road- constitutional-convention#sect-activities http://edsitement.neh.gov/lesson-plan/road- constitutional-convention#sect-activities