Understanding the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution

The video discusses the evolution of the US government from the Articles of Confederation to the current Constitution. Initially, the Articles created a weak central government with no executive or judicial branches, leading to economic challenges and inability to levy taxes. Shay's Rebellion highlighted these weaknesses, prompting the drafting of a new Constitution. The video also briefly touches on the costs associated with presidential campaigns.

What was the initial purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

• To create a strong central government

• To replace the British King with a new ruler

• To form a loose union of independent states

• To establish a monarchy

Which branches of government were missing under the Articles of Confederation?

• Executive and Legislative

• Legislative and Judicial

• Judicial and Executive

• None of the above

What powers did the Congress have under the Articles of Confederation?

• To appoint a president

• To enforce laws

• To make treaties and alliances

• To levy taxes

Why was the Congress unable to pay for its powers under the Articles?

• The British controlled the economy

• The Congress did not have any powers

• States refused to pay federal taxes

• There was no currency

What was a major economic issue faced by the United States under the Articles?

• Surplus of funds

• Inability to repay debts

• Excessive taxation

• Lack of trade agreements

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the central government under the Articles?

• The War of 1812

• The Boston Tea Party

• Shay's Rebellion

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

Why was it difficult to amend the Articles of Confederation?

• It required a national referendum

• It was never intended to be amended

• It needed approval from the British King

• It required unanimous consent

What was the result of the ineffective federal government under the Articles?

• Peace and stability

• A strong central government

• Economic prosperity

• Nothing was getting accomplished

What did the founding fathers do after realizing the Articles were ineffective?

• They declared war on Britain

• They drafted a new Constitution

• They dissolved the United States

• They increased state powers

What is the significance of the new Constitution drafted by the founding fathers?

• It was immediately replaced

• It established a monarchy

• It created 13 independent nations

• It is still the law of the land today