AP U.S. History
Spilkin
Articles of Confederation
Analysis and Dissemination
DIRECTIONS: Listed below are several features relating to the Articles of Confederation, the first document that established the government of the United States. Define the term and explain its significance, keeping in mind that some things may be significant because of having negative effects. (Brief definitions and statements of significance are acceptable, but they must be written as COMPLETE SENTENCES.)
BACKGROUND:
The Articles of Confederation was the first document governing the United States. It was established in a manner that wished to address concerns that the new American’s had with government. However, problems with the document made governing the nation difficult. Moreover, other events that occurred nationally compounded the problems with the document. With this in mind, however, many historians believe that there were some successes. Your task will be to figure this out.
Facts about the Articles of Confederation:
(Some relate to the structure of the document, the powers of the government, historical events that occurred at the time, and certain legislative powers of the government)
No separate executive established Treaty of Paris (1783)
Northwest Ordinances of 1785 and 1787 Federal aid to education (1785)
Each state has one vote No national currency established
No national court system Shays’ Rebellion
British retained forts in the Northwest Government did not protect settlers from Indians
Congress did not regulate interstate commerce Congress was not given taxing powers
States would tax each others’ goods States were kept together in union
The new country had little trade with Britain The government could not pay French loans
Spain refused “right of deposit” at New Orleans Members often failed to attend Congress.
Place the above events in one of the chart categories listed below.
Accomplishments of the Government under the Articles / Problems associated with the Articles / Events/Situations making solutions difficult.d