Articles of Confederation Problems with Articles- National government could not: Levy tax or coin money enforce laws settle disputes between states

The Constitutional Convention Met to fix the problems with the Articles of Confederation. Decide to get rid of it and start with a new form of government. Meetings among delegates were closed off to the public & they were not allowed to discuss ideas with non- delegates.

Ratification of the Constitution Copies of the Constitution were sent to each state for approval. At least 9 states needed to approve it for it to become the new law of the land. the delegates wanted ALL states to approve the Constitution. States that did not, would not be apart of the United States.

The Federalist They supported a strong national government to: Protect the states Maintain order Regulate trade Guarantee rights to citizens

The Anti- Federalist They supported a weak national government to: Allow politicians to be closer to their constituents. Protect people’s liberties. Limit abuses of power by the federal government. Wanted a “Bill of Rights” added.

The Federalist Paper Written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay 85 essays outlining the need for a strong national government and why the Articles of Confederation were weak. Explained that the Constitution will protect rights and liberties Would prevent stronger counties from trying to overpower them.

Finally Ratified The Constitution was ratified in June 1788 when New Hampshire became the 9th state to approve the new document. All 13 states approved the Constitution by May, 1790

Articles four The States- Privilege & Immunities of Citizens Full Faith & Credit- States must respect the laws of other states Privilege & Immunities of Citizens Privilege- Citizens are entitled to the same privileges in other states. Extradition- the act of returning a suspected criminal/ escaped prisoner to the state they are wanted. Fugitive Slave Clause- repealed by the 13th amendment New States- ONLY congress can add new states to the union Federal Land- ONLY Congress has the power to regulate land belonging to the US Republic- Voters choose representatives; the Federal government must protect the states from foreign invasion and domestic/internal disorder if asked by the state.

Federalism

Federalism

Articles five Amendments Explains the process of making changes and List the changes to the Constitution. Bill of Rights (first 10, added at the request of the anti-federalist) Currently there are 27 amendments

Plans for the national Legislative Branch The Virginia Plan: Introduced by James Madison. Called for a two house (bicameral) legislature based on each state’s population. The New jersey plan: Introduced William Patterson. Called for a one-house and all states got equal representation

The Great Compromises Created a two-house Legislature Our Legislative Branch: House of Representatives: number of Representatives for each state is based off of that states population. Senate: Each states has an equal amount (2) representatives and would selected by each state’s legislature. Only eligible citizens, White males with property, could vote.

1. The Legislative Branch Created a two-house Legislature Our Legislative Branch: House of Representatives: number of Representatives for each state is based off of that states population. Senate: Each states has an equal amount (2) representatives and would selected by each state’s legislature. Only White males with property were eligible citizens and could vote.

2. Executive Branch The Articles of Confederation: The Constitution: It did not have an Executive branch because the young states did not want a “King” like figure The Constitution: One person will have executive powers, the President Job is to enforce the laws The powers and duties were broadly defined. Elected by the Electoral College

3. Judicial Branch The Articles of Confederation: The Constitution: It did not have a Judicial branch. The Constitution: Created a Supreme Court and federal court system. The Supreme Court Interpret law Settle disputes between states.

Preamble list the goals of our government. The 6 goals listed are: Form a perfect union: Unite the 13 separate states under 1 strong national government. Establish Justice: Use fair ways to settle disagreements between individuals, states, and governments. Ensure domestic tranquility: Set up a peaceful society in which people are protected from unlawful acts. Provide for the common defense: Protect citizens from attacks by other countries. Promote the general welfare: Create conditions that will help Americans. Secure the blessing of liberty for all: Make sure that our freedoms & those of future Americans are protected.

Parts of the Constitution The Constitution is divided into 8 parts: 1 preamble & 7 articles 1-3. The Constitution starts with separation of power. The powers and duties of the three branches of government, legislative, executive, and judicial are explained in the first three articles of the Constitution. States Amendments Supremacy clauses Ratification process

Limits to Government Federalism- Some powers belong to the national government Some powers belong to the states Some powers are shared among the national government & the states (Called concurrent powers) Separation of Powers- Introduced by Baron De Montesquieu Power is divided among the 3 branches in the national government Keeps one branch from abusing its power. Checks and Balances- Each branch limits the power of the other two branches.

Separation of Powers

Checks and Balances

Articles six & seven Supremacy- Divided into 3 section Ratification Debts- Debts created before the constitution are still valid Supremacy clause- No State Law is above or can be made against the principals of the constitution Oath of Office- All State and National officials must take an oath to uphold the Constitution upon taking office Ratification Required nine states to approve the Constitution to make it the new plan for government.