Key Events and Concepts in American History

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Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787)

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An armed uprising in Massachusetts led by farmers protesting economic injustices, demonstrating the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

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Constitutional Convention (1787)

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A meeting of delegates in Philadelphia to address the problems of the Articles of Confederation, which resulted in the drafting of the United States Constitution.

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Signing of the Constitution (September 17, 1787)

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The conclusion of the Constitutional Convention, where the new Constitution was signed, requiring ratification by the states.

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Republicanism

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The belief in a government where representatives are elected by the people to make decisions on their behalf.

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Federalism

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A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for a balance of power.

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Articles of Confederation

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Established a weak central government.

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The Great Compromise

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Created a two-chamber legislature (House of Representatives and Senate).

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The Three-Fifths Compromise

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Counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation.

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The Electoral College

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Established to elect the President.

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The Federalist Papers

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Written to support the ratification of the Constitution.