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

The video discusses the transition from the Articles of Confederation to the US Constitution. It highlights the weaknesses of the Articles, such as lack of centralized power and issues with state sovereignty. The fear of monarchy led to a focus on liberty, but this resulted in too much independence for states. The Philadelphia Convention aimed to centralize power while preserving liberty, leading to the creation of the Constitution with a balanced government structure.

What was the primary purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

• To abolish state governments

• To provide a loose set of rules for the 13 states

• To create a strong federal government

• To establish a monarchy

Why was it difficult for the government to repay Revolutionary War soldiers under the Articles of Confederation?

• The states were unwilling to contribute funds

• The soldiers refused payment

• The war had depleted all resources

• The government had no power to tax

What was a major issue with trade under the Articles of Confederation?

• The government controlled all trade

• States had conflicting trade interests

• Trade was banned with foreign nations

• There were no trade routes

What was a significant debate during the drafting of the U.S. Constitution?

• The abolition of all state governments

• The establishment of a single national currency

• Whether to have a monarchy

• The balance between national power and state liberty

Which state did not participate in the Philadelphia Convention?

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

• New York

• Massachusetts

What was one of the key features introduced in the U.S. Constitution?

• A monarchy

• A single presidency

• A council of presidents

• A decentralized government

How did the U.S. Constitution address the issue of state and federal power?

• By eliminating state governments

• By allowing states to secede at will

• By creating a balance of power system

• By giving all power to the federal government

What was the main concern that led to the creation of the Articles of Confederation?

• Desire for a monarchy

• Interest in expanding territory

• Fear of a strong central government

• Need for a national currency

On a scale of zero to ten, where did the U.S. Constitution initially place the balance of power?

• Ten

• Eight or nine

• Five or six

• One or two

How has the balance of power evolved from the Articles of Confederation to the present day?

• It has shifted back to a one

• It has moved closer to a ten

• It has remained the same

• It has become more decentralized