Declaration of Independence and Articles of Confederation

This video tutorial covers early US government, focusing on the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. It explains the significance of the Declaration, the grievances against the British King, and the structure and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. The video concludes with practice questions to reinforce learning.

Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?

• George Washington

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benjamin Franklin

What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

• To declare war on France

• To announce the colonies' independence from Britain

• To create a new constitution

• To establish a new monarchy

Which event marked the official adoption of the Declaration of Independence?

• The election of the first President

• The end of the Revolutionary War

• The signing by King George III

• The approval by the Continental Congress

What was John Hancock's role in the Declaration of Independence?

• He was the primary author

• He was the first to sign it

• He opposed its adoption

• He delivered it to King George III

What is meant by 'unalienable rights' as mentioned in the Declaration?

• Rights that cannot be taken away

• Rights that are earned over time

• Rights granted by the government

• Rights that can be given up

Which of the following was NOT a grievance listed against the King of England?

• Refusing to pass necessary laws

• Imposing taxes without consent

• Providing free trade with other nations

• Quartering troops in colonists' homes

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

• It created a strong federal government

• It allowed states to have too much power

• It provided for a national judicial system

• It established a powerful presidency

Under the Articles of Confederation, how many states were required to agree to pass a decision?

• 13 out of 13

• 9 out of 13

• 7 out of 13

• 10 out of 13

What was a key feature of the government under the Articles of Confederation?

• A powerful federal military

• A national court system

• A single legislative body with equal representation for each state

• A strong executive branch

Which of the following was a power NOT granted to Congress under the Articles of Confederation?

• Coining money

• Regulating commerce

• Maintaining armed forces

• Making treaties