Articles of Confederation and Shay's Rebellion

Mr. Zoeller presents a video on the Articles of Confederation, covering its organization, achievements, and problems. The video explains the historical context, the need for a unified government during the Revolutionary War, and the challenges faced in drafting the Articles. It highlights the successes, such as the Treaty of Paris and the Northwest Ordinance, and the issues like lack of taxation power and trade regulation. Shay's Rebellion is discussed as a pivotal event that exposed the weaknesses of the national government, leading to the creation of the US Constitution.

What was the primary purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

• To unify the states during the war against Great Britain

• To create a strong central government

• To divide the 13 colonies into separate countries

• To establish a monarchy in the United States

How did the Articles of Confederation address the fear of a strong national government?

• By creating a powerful executive branch

• By allowing states to have their own armies

• By establishing a weak national government with no executive or judicial branches

• By giving Congress the power to tax

Which of the following was a significant achievement under the Articles of Confederation?

• The establishment of a national currency

• The successful negotiation of the Treaty of Paris

• The creation of a strong national army

• The introduction of federal income tax

What was the purpose of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?

• To organize new states and provide public education

• To establish a national bank

• To allow slavery in the Northwest Territory

• To create a new national capital

What was one major problem with the Articles of Confederation regarding taxation?

• States were required to pay high taxes to Congress

• Taxes were only collected from wealthy states

• Congress could impose taxes without state approval

• Congress had no power to tax the states

Why was Congress unable to enforce laws under the Articles of Confederation?

• There was no executive branch to enforce laws

• States refused to pass any laws

• The judicial branch was too powerful

• Congress had too much power over the states

How did the lack of a national currency under the Articles of Confederation affect trade?

• It made trade easier between states

• It caused confusion and hindered trade between states

• It had no impact on trade

• It led to the creation of a single national currency

What was a key factor that led to Shay's Rebellion?

• High taxes imposed by the national government

• The enforcement of trade agreements with France

• Farmers losing their land due to debt and unpaid taxes

• The creation of a strong national army

What did Shay's Rebellion reveal about the national government under the Articles of Confederation?

• It had strong support from all the states

• It was effective in dealing with internal conflicts

• It lacked the power to maintain order and protect property

• It was too powerful and needed to be limited

What was the ultimate outcome of the issues highlighted by Shay's Rebellion?

• The strengthening of the Articles of Confederation

• The drafting of the US Constitution

• The creation of a new national army

• The dissolution of the United States