The Articles of Confederation - AP US History

Front

What was the first constitution of the United States?

Back

The Articles of Confederation.

Front

What type of government did the Articles of Confederation establish?

Back

A loose confederation of states with a weak central government.

Front

What powers were given to the central government under the Articles of Confederation?

Back

The power to conduct foreign relations and regulate trade between the states.

Front

What were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

Back

The government could not levy taxes, regulate foreign trade, enforce laws, or amend the Articles easily.

Front

What was the outcome of Congress having no power to levy taxes under the Articles?

Back

The government was always short of money.

Front

Why was it difficult to enact laws under the Articles of Confederation?

Back

Approval of 9 out of 13 states was needed to enact laws.

Front

What was required to amend the Articles of Confederation?

Back

Unanimous approval from all 13 states.

Front

What was the Land Ordinance of 1785?

Back

It allowed the federal government to sell western lands to pay off national debt and organize them into townships and public schools.

Front

What was the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?

Back

It set a process for new states to join the United States, ensuring they were equal to existing states.

Front

What was Shay's Rebellion?

Back

A series of armed protests in Massachusetts between 1786 and 1787 led by Daniel Shays, highlighting economic grievances.