1. The Articles of Confederation 7-1

2. Objectives Learn how the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation led to instability. Learn how Congress dealt with the western lands.

3. Thirteen Independent States Although the Americans had defeated the British on the battlefield and had won independence. The nation had to deal with the fact that 13 States had 13 different plans of government.

4. State Constitutions Because of the history with King George III, state legislatures became the most powerful and influential parts of the government

5. Dividing Power Legislative Branch An elective body to make the laws. A bicameral, two house legislature. Executive Branch An elected officer to lead the state. A governor, or president

6. Goals of Government Prevent abuse of power. Keep power in hands of people. Restricted powers of governors.

7. Forming a Republic Most Americans favored small local governments. They believed the states could come together during emergencies such as war. But nobody had experience at running a country.

8. Articles of Confederation Adopted in November 15, 1777. Maryland ratified the Articles February 22, 1781. It went into effect March 1, 1781.

9. Articles of Confederation Strengths Maintain Army and Navy Declare War, Make Peace Make treaties Borrow money Establish post office Print money Manage affairs with Indians Weaknesses Not levy taxes Not prevent states from issuing own money Amend Articles w/o all 13 states approval Not make states pay for national government Not regulate trade Not enforce laws

10. Land Policies The Or

12. The Ordinance of 1785 The Land Ordinance of 1785 established a procedure by which the lands owned by the government would be surveyed and sold. Six mille squares known as townships. Sub-divided were called sections. Sales from section 16 would support schools.

13. The Northwest Ordinance The Northwest Ordinance established the procedure by which territories could become states. From the Northwest Ordinance, five states would be admitted to the union.

14. Financial Problems Paper Money Money issued during the Revolutionary War had depreciated in value. Price of goods skyrocketed. National Debt The debt from the Revolutionary War needed to be paid and Congress had no power to tax.

15. Robert Morris The man who was responsible for financing the war. Proposed a 5% tax on imports. The measure failed to pass.

16. Troubles with European Nations Great Britain Kept troops in western lands Closed ports in West Indies Spain Closed the lower Mississippi River

17. Self Check What were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation? What were the two most significant laws passed under the Articles of Confederation government?