Chapter 7: A More Perfect Union

From Independent States to a Republic Second Continental Congress’ Goal: Create a plan for government that satisfies all 13 colonies needs and wants. After separating from Britain, this was the colonies first task – establish their own political institutions (governments)

State Constitutions Each state was moving quickly to adopt their own Constitution. Their experience with British rule made Americans cautious about placing too much power in the hands of the ruler (President) To reduce this risk, many state Constitutions limited the power of the government.

Limiting Power Bicameral Legislatures State legislators were popularly elected and frequent Who could vote? White males, At least 21 years old Own property Pay a certain amount of taxes Some states allowed free African Americans to vote.

Forming a Republic Americans agreed that our government should be a republic. Republic: A govt. in that citizens rule through elected representatives. Originally they wanted the states to feel like individual countries that only worked together in times of war or other foreign relations.

Planning a New Government Articles of Confederation: Adopted November Provided for a central government in which states had the most power. Read pages Use page to create an “everything you need to know about the Articles of Confederation”.

Planning a New Government Positives of the Articles of Confederation: A. _________________________________________________ B. _________________________________________________ C. _________________________________________________ Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation: A. _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ B. _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ C. _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________

The Confederation Government The Articles of Confederation did not provide a government strong enough to handle the problems facing the United States. Congress could not pass a law unless 9/13 states voted in favor. The Articles could not be changed or amended unless all 13 states agreed, which made it difficult for Congress to pass laws.

More Positives!! Under the Confederation government, Americans won their independence from Britain. In addition, they also expanded foreign trade and helped with settling the nations western territories.