The Birth of a Nation: Debating the Constitution and Its Legacy

George Washington discusses the U.S. journey from independence to the creation of the Constitution. The failure of the Articles of Confederation led to the Constitutional Convention, where Federalists and Anti-Federalists debated the new government's structure. The Federalists, led by figures like James Madison, supported a strong central government, while Anti-Federalists, including Thomas Jefferson, feared it would infringe on states' rights. The compromise led to the addition of the Bill of Rights. The Constitution was eventually ratified, shaping the future political landscape.

What was the main challenge faced by the United States after gaining independence from Britain?

• Establishing a monarchy

• Finding new allies

• Ruling themselves

• Expanding territory

What was the primary reason for the failure of the Articles of Confederation?

• Lack of a strong federal government

• Excessive taxation

• Too much power to the central government

• No representation for the states

Who were the leaders of the Federalists advocating for the new Constitution?

• George Washington and Benjamin Franklin

• Samuel Adams and John Hancock

• James Madison and Alexander Hamilton

• Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry

What was the main concern of the Anti-Federalists regarding the new Constitution?

• It was too similar to the British monarchy

• It did not allow for amendments

• It gave too much power to the federal government

• It was too weak

What was the Federalists' argument for a strong federal government?

• To ensure state independence

• To solve problems caused by the Articles of Confederation

• To increase taxation

• To prevent foreign invasions

What did the Anti-Federalists demand to be included in the Constitution?

• More power to the President

• A Bill of Rights

• A new taxation system

• A monarchy

What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights according to the Anti-Federalists?

• To establish a national bank

• To limit state powers

• To guarantee individual liberties

• To increase federal power

Which state was the first to ratify the Constitution?

• Delaware

• Virginia

• New York

• Rhode Island

How long did it take for all 13 states to ratify the Constitution?

• Four years

• Three years

• Two years

• One year

What ongoing debate did George Washington warn about in his farewell address?

• The expansion of U.S. territories

• The need for a national bank

• The rivalry between Federalists and Anti-Federalists

• The power of the presidency