Foundations of U.S. Government Principles

The video discusses the challenges faced by the United States after the Revolutionary War, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. It covers Shay's Rebellion as a pivotal event that demonstrated the need for a stronger federal government. Key figures like Jefferson, Adams, Madison, and Hamilton advocated for a new plan, leading to the creation of the Constitution, which balanced power and ensured both freedom and order.

What did the founders realize after the war with Britain ended?

• That no changes were necessary

• That they should return to British rule

• That a new system was needed to avoid monarchy

• That the nation was completely secure

What was a major flaw of the Articles of Confederation?

• It gave too much power to the central government

• It provided for a strong executive leader

• It allowed for a strong national army

• It left the government powerless and unable to govern effectively

What event highlighted the weaknesses of the government under the Articles of Confederation?

• The Boston Tea Party

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• Shay's Rebellion

• The Louisiana Purchase

Who led the rebellion that exposed the government's weaknesses?

• George Washington

• Alexander Hamilton

• Thomas Jefferson

• Daniel Shay

What was Thomas Jefferson's view on government power?

• He believed in a strong central government

• He thought too much power could threaten rights

• He wanted no government at all

• He supported a monarchy

Which two figures called for a better plan for the government?

• Henry and Shay

• Washington and Franklin

• Jefferson and Adams

• Madison and Hamilton

What was the main goal of the Constitution?

• To establish a monarchy

• To create a government with balanced power

• To return to British rule

• To dissolve the United States

What did the Constitution aim to balance?

• Freedom and order

• Trade and agriculture

• Military and peace

• Power and wealth

What was a key lesson learned from the Articles of Confederation?

• That a monarchy is preferable

• That states should be completely independent

• That a weak government leads to chaos

• That no government is the best government

What did history show was necessary for the United States?

• A strong monarchy

• Freedom and order in agreement

• Complete independence of states

• No central government