#1 - Why were the Articles of Confederation so unsuccessful?

The New Republic (1781) The states create and adopt the Articles of Confederation

 Democracy – form of government in which the people have a say in the operation of the government – a voice!  Republic – Government in which power is in the hand of elected leaders not inherited Representative Democratic Republic How are we going to do this?

Alliance of sovereign independent groups for the purpose of security and safety

Articles of Confederation Organizes Congress One vote per state Gave power to Congress to: Declare war Make Peace & sign treaties Set standards for coins & weights/measures Establish a postal service Deal with Native Americans

Failed to do – Could not make or collect taxes from states – No control over interstate or foreign trade – 9 of the 13 states needed to pass a law – All 13 states must agree to make any changes (amend) – No executive and no federal courts

Land Ordinance of 1785 It divided land in underdeveloped territories

Northwest Ordinance of 1787 No more than 5 and no less than 3 states Set guidelines for a territory to apply for statehood 1) Congress appoints a Governor & Judges 2) 5,000 residents draft (write) a temporary constitution and elect representatives 3) 60,000 residents total, write a State Constitution, and get the approval of Congress. 4)No slavery in the states established

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Shays’ Rebellion

Shay’s Rebellion Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation led to economic troubles Daniel Shays and Massachusetts farmers unsuccessfully try to take an arsenal (weapons) in Springfield 4 of Shays’ men are killed The rebellion shows the need for a stronger central (federal) government