The Strengths and Weaknesses of America's First Government

Mr. Wade discusses the formation of state governments and the Articles of Confederation, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. He explains how the Articles were effective during the war but struggled post-war due to limited central power. The video covers the Northwest Ordinance's impact on slavery and Shay's Rebellion's role in prompting a stronger national government. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to engage with more content.

What was the main reason for creating a new government after declaring independence from England?

• To form alliances with other countries

• To establish a monarchy

• To replace the English government

• To create a new trade system

Which state was the first to declare itself independent by writing its own constitution?

• New York

• Virginia

• Massachusetts

• New Hampshire

What is a constitution described as in the video?

• A set of laws

• A declaration of independence

• A government structure

• A rulebook

What type of legislature did most states set up?

• Unicameral

• Bicameral

• Tricameral

• Quadricameral

When were the Articles of Confederation written?

• 1777

• 1781

• 1776

• 1785

What was a significant achievement of the Articles of Confederation?

• Creating a strong central government

• Establishing a national bank

• Forming a new constitution

• Controlling the army during the war

What was the purpose of the Northwest Ordinance?

• To form alliances with other countries

• To create a new constitution

• To limit the spread of slavery

• To establish a national bank

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

• Too many branches of government

• Too much power in the central government

• Inability to collect taxes

• Lack of state representation

Who led the rebellion that highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

• George Washington

• Alexander Hamilton

• Thomas Jefferson

• Daniel Shays

What was the main consequence of Shay's Rebellion?

• Strengthening the Articles of Confederation

• Forming new state governments

• Creating a new trade system

• Highlighting the need for a stronger national government