Exploring the Articles of Confederation: Strengths and Weaknesses

This video tutorial covers module 4 of the Foundations in Teaching Social Studies course, focusing on the Articles of Confederation. It explores the strengths and weaknesses of America's first constitution, highlighting the Northwest Ordinance as a positive aspect. The tutorial explains the limitations of the Articles, such as the lack of a strong federal government and issues with congressional representation. It concludes with the need for a new constitution, leading to the US Constitution.

What was the primary reason for the change from the Articles of Confederation?

• To introduce a new currency

• To abolish the presidency

• To create a stronger federal government

• To strengthen state governments

What was a significant achievement of the Articles of Confederation?

• The creation of a national court system

• The establishment of the Northwest Ordinance

• The introduction of a common currency

• The ability to levy taxes

According to the Northwest Ordinance, what was required for a territory to apply for statehood?

• No requirement for population

• Slavery to be allowed

• A population of 60,000 free settlers

• A population of 50,000 free settlers

What was one of the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

• It had a powerful national court system

• It allowed for a strong federal army

• It promoted a common currency

• It lacked the power to enforce laws

Why was the federal government under the Articles of Confederation unable to get out of debt?

• Because it was too powerful

• Because it could not levy taxes

• Because it had a strong executive branch

• Because it could levy taxes effectively

What did the lack of a national court system under the Articles of Confederation imply?

• The president could make judicial decisions

• There was no way to resolve disputes between states

• There was a unified legal system

• States could enforce federal laws

How many votes did each state have under the Articles of Confederation?

• Votes proportional to population

• Votes based on economic contribution

• Two votes per state

• One vote per state

What was required to amend the Constitution under the Articles of Confederation?

• A simple majority

• Two-thirds majority

• Unanimous agreement

• Presidential approval

What did Shay's Rebellion demonstrate about the federal government?

• It had a good taxation system

• It needed to be restructured

• It was effective in handling crises

• It was too strong

What was a major concern of states regarding congressional representation?

• All states wanted more representation

• Larger states wanted more representation

• Smaller states wanted to abolish Congress

• States were content with equal representation