Articles of Confederation and Constitution Worksheet

The Articles of Confederation and Constitution are essential documents in American history that established the foundation for our government. If you are a history enthusiast or a student studying American government, using worksheets can be a helpful way to deepen your understanding of these historical documents. Worksheets provide a structured platform to engage with the content and reinforce your knowledge of the key concepts and principles found within the Articles of Confederation and Constitution.

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What were the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles of Confederation were the first constitution of the United States, adopted in 1781, establishing a loose alliance of 13 sovereign states. It created a weak central government with limited powers, particularly in areas of taxation and regulation of commerce. The Articles were eventually replaced by the stronger Constitution in 1789.

When were the Articles of Confederation ratified?

The Articles of Confederation were ratified on March 1, 1781.

What were the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation included a lack of centralized power, leading to difficulties in enforcing laws and collecting taxes; the inability to regulate trade or enforce treaties with other countries, hindering economic growth and international relations; and the lack of a national army, leaving the new nation vulnerable to internal and external threats. Additionally, issues with representation and decision-making processes within the government made it challenging to address conflicts and make collective decisions efficiently.

How did the Constitution address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The Constitution addressed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation by creating a stronger central government with expanded powers, such as the ability to levy taxes, regulate interstate commerce, and raise an army. It also established a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. Additionally, the Constitution provided for a more efficient and unified system of governance by creating a federal system that shared power between the national government and the states.

What was the purpose of the Constitutional Convention?

The purpose of the Constitutional Convention, held in Philadelphia in 1787, was to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and to create a new governing document for the United States. The delegates gathered to draft the United States Constitution, which established the framework for the federal government, outlined the powers and responsibilities of each branch, and created a system of checks and balances to prevent abuse of power. The ultimate goal was to create a stronger and more effective government that could better govern the country and protect the rights of its citizens.

Who were some key figures in the drafting of the Constitution?

Some key figures in the drafting of the Constitution were James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Ben Franklin, George Washington, and Gouverneur Morris. They were among the delegates who played significant roles in shaping the foundational document of the United States, with Madison often referred to as the "Father of the Constitution" due to his influential contributions during the drafting process.

What were the main differences between the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution?

The main differences between the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution were the shift of power from states to the federal government, the creation of a bicameral legislature, the establishment of an executive branch, and the inclusion of a judicial branch with the ability to interpret and enforce the laws. The Constitution also provided for a system of checks and balances among the branches of government, ensuring no single branch became too powerful, while the Articles of Confederation lacked a strong central government and had limited authority to enforce laws and regulate commerce.

How did the Constitution establish a more powerful central government?

The Constitution established a more powerful central government by creating a system of checks and balances between the three branches of government – legislative, executive, and judicial. It granted specific powers to the federal government, such as the ability to regulate commerce, levy taxes, and raise an army, while also limiting the powers of the states. Additionally, the Constitution provided for the supremacy of federal law over state law, further strengthening the authority of the central government.

What were the key compromises made during the drafting of the Constitution?

Some key compromises made during the drafting of the Constitution include the Great Compromise, which resolved representation in Congress by establishing a bicameral legislature with the Senate having equal representation for each state and the House of Representatives based on population; the Three-Fifths Compromise, which settled how enslaved individuals would be counted for representation and taxation purposes; and the Commerce Compromise, which allowed the federal government to regulate interstate commerce but not intrastate commerce. These compromises were crucial in achieving consensus among the states and creating a lasting framework for the new government.

What impact did the Constitution have on the structure of the United States government?

The Constitution fundamentally shaped the structure of the United States government by establishing a system of checks and balances among three separate branches—executive, legislative, and judicial. It also outlined the powers and responsibilities of each branch, set the foundation for federalism by delineating the division of powers between the national government and states, and guaranteed individual rights through the Bill of Rights. Additionally, the Constitution established a framework for the rule of law, creating a stable and enduring government structure that has guided the country for over two centuries.