U.S. Constitution Key Concepts

The video discusses the U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787, as the supreme law of the nation. It highlights the challenges faced by the federal government, leading to the Annapolis Convention in 1786. The Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, led by George Washington, established a government of limited powers. The ratification process required approval from two-thirds of the states, facing opposition from small farmers and artisans. Concerns about citizens' rights were addressed in the first ten amendments. Rhode Island was the last state to ratify, under pressure from Congress.

What is the primary function of the U.S. Constitution?

• To provide guidelines for international treaties

• To outline the rights of individual states

• To establish trade regulations

• To serve as the supreme law of the nation

Why was there dissatisfaction with the government before the Constitution was drafted?

• Lack of a national currency

• Inability to pass laws for the entire nation

• Excessive federal authority

• Too many amendments

What was the main purpose of the Annapolis Convention?

• To draft the Bill of Rights

• To establish a national bank

• To create uniform trade regulations

• To elect a new president

Who was appointed as the president of the Constitutional Convention?

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• John Adams

How many delegates signed the Constitution?

• 55

• 39

• 13

• 27

What was the outcome of the Constitutional Convention?

• A new trade agreement

• The election of a new president

• The drafting of the U.S. Constitution

• The dissolution of the federal government

What was required for the Constitution to become law?

• Unanimous consent of all states

• Endorsement by the Supreme Court

• Ratification by 2/3 of the states

• Approval by the President

Which state was the last to ratify the Constitution?

• Rhode Island

• Delaware

• Virginia

• New York

What was a major concern of those opposing the ratification of the Constitution?

• Too much power to the states

• High taxes

• Absence of a Bill of Rights

• Lack of a strong military

What did the first 10 amendments to the Constitution address?

• Citizens' fundamental rights

• State boundaries

• Federal taxation

• Trade regulations