1. Before Class Begins Open your books to pg. 34
Take out your notebook/paper and a pen/pencil

2. Chapter 1.4
The Constitution
Pgs. 34 – 41

3. The Young Nation New State Constitutions Changes in Society
On your paper identify the 3 common features found in the constitutions written by the different states.
Separation of powers
Bicameral legislatures
List of guaranteed rights
Changes in Society
Weakening of religion
Expansion of voting rights
Questions of Women’s rights & slavery

4. Cont. A Weak National Government
What are some examples of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Why did our Founding Fathers create such a weak national government?
The Northwest Ordinance of 1787

5. A New Constitution Debate & Compromise
By 1787 most states realized change was needed
Delegates were sent to “edit” the Articles
Debate & Compromise
What are 2 of the issues that were resolved through compromise?
Representation (the Connecticut Compromise)
Population (The 3/5ths Compromise)
Other issues
Trade and slavery

6. Cont. Framework of Government
Identify and Define the 5 major concepts established by the new constitution.
Popular Sovereignty – the power of government is in the hands of the people
Federalism – Government is separated into both the nation & State
Separation of Powers – Powers of the government are divided between 3 branches: Executive, Legislative & Judicial
Check & Balances – each branch can both prevent and be prevented from abuse of power
Amending – the constitution can be revised to reflect changes in society
Anyone know how many times we’ve revised the constitution?

7. Ratification Debating the Constitution Massachusetts
It’s one thing to write it…
Debating the Constitution
Make a small T-chart identifying the differences between Federalists & Anti-Federalists
Federalists like the new Constitution as is
Anti-Federalists have a serious concern
What is it?
Massachusetts
Promises are made to gain Anti-Federalist Support
9 out of 13 approve by 1788, it’s in!
But wait…

8. Cont. Virginia & New York
What if you and most of your friends decide to go out to the movies?
But the friend with the car and the most money doesn’t want to see that movie?
Virginia & New York
Virginia passed it by 10 votes
New York even less
And the last state to ratify?
Rhode Island – the smallest in the country, then & now

9. A Bit of Review
Why weren’t the Founders happy with the Articles of Confederation?
What is one of the new concepts found in the Constitution? Can you explain it?
What is the major concern of the Anti-Federalists?