Understanding the Formation of the U.S. Constitution

What was a major flaw of the Articles of Confederation?

• Lack of a national army

• Too strong a central government

• Inability to levy taxes

• All states had equal representation

What was the main goal of the Constitutional Convention?

• To elect a president

• To draft a new constitution

• To amend the Articles of Confederation

• To declare independence from Britain

What did the delegates decide about the Articles of Confederation?

• To make minor amendments

• To replace them with a new constitution

• To keep them as is

• To strengthen state powers

Who is known for their support of a strong central government?

• James Madison

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• Alexander Hamilton

What was a significant issue debated at the Constitutional Convention?

• The national bird

• Representation in Congress

• The capital location

• The official language

What was a key feature of the new government structure?

• Monarchy

• Single legislative body

• Checks and balances

• Direct democracy

What compromise was made regarding slavery in the Constitution?

• Immediate abolition

• Freedom for all born after 1800

• Three-fifths compromise

• Slavery was not mentioned

What was the stance of southern states on slavery during the convention?

• No official stance

• Gradual emancipation

• Immediate abolition

• Continuation of slavery

Who was elected as the first President of the United States?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• James Madison

How did Benjamin Franklin symbolize the outcome of the convention?

• A stormy cloud

• A full moon

• A rising sun

• A setting sun