Chapter #9: The Confederation and the Constitution – Big Picture Ideas
1. The Articles of Confederation, the first government set up after the American Revolution, was structured out of fear of a too-strong government. Therefore, the Articles were very weak on purpose.
2. Two things showed the Articles as being too weak to the point of being sterile: (a) it could not regulate commerce and the money situation was growing dim fast and (b) Shays’ Rebellion frightened many to the possibility that mobs might just take over and the government might be too weak to stop them. Due to these reasons, the Constitutional Convention was held.
3. The Constitution was written as something of a balancing act between strengthening the government, yet making sure it doesn’t get too strong to take over. The resulting government was indeed stronger, but also a system of checks and balances were put into place to ensure no one branch becomes like the king had been.
4. After some negotiating, mostly with the promise of the Bill of Rights, the Constitution was ratified.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
John Locke’s Second Treatise of Government
It stated that all humans have a right to life, liberty, and property and that gov. exist to protect those rights. It rejected the theory of divine right of monarchy and believed in a social contract that existed between gov. and people. If gov. failed, people can rebel.
Federalist #10
Written by James Madison and it's the tenth of the federalist papers and it argued for the ratification of the constitution. Published Nov. 22, 1787 by Publius. It was very highly regarded. It refuted the conventional wisdom which stated that it was possible to extend a republican form of gov. over a big area.
Republican Government
It's a political theory of rep. gov.; it was based on the principle of popular sovereignty and heavy emphasis on liberty an dcivic virtue. It was influential in the 18th century and it was an alternative to monarchy.
Land Ordinance of 1785
It provided that the acreage of the old northwest should be sold and the proceeds should be used to pay oof national debt.
Land Ordinance of 1787
It related to the governing of the Old Northwest. This law dealt with the problem of how a nation should deal with its colonies. It forbade slavery in the new lands/territories.
Necessary and Proper Clause
It's a constitutional clause that gives congress the right and power to make all laws necessary and proper for executing its powers. Hamilton used this to do all that he did that wasn't stated directly in the constitution.
Federalist Papers
It was a collection of essays written by John Jay, Hamilton, and Madison. It was under the pseudonym Publius. It was published in the NY newspaper. It explained how the new gov./constitution would work. It's purpose was to convince the NY legislature to ratify the constitution.
Shays Rebellion
It was a rebellion led by Daniel Shay, made up of debtors seeking lower taxes and property foreclosures. Farmers were angry that the lost their land. Though it was quickly put down, it signaled the need for a stronger central gov.
Annapolis Convention
It was in 1786, and congress' inability to control commerce was causing issues. Interstate fights was happening more and more and so Virginia called a convention. 9 states appointed delegates but only 5 were represented. Alex Hamilton saved the convention form failure by drafting a report that called on congress to summon another convention.
Philadelphia Convention
In 1787, 12 colonies sent delegates to revise the Articles of Confederation, only revise, but the delegates agreed the U.S needed a new constitution.
Delegated Powers
Its powers given to the federal gov. by the constitution.
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Reserved Powers
Powers that remain with the states after other powers were delegated to the national gov. but the constitution.
Concurrent Powers
Powers that are shared by both the federal and the state gov.
Supremacy Clause
It was the constitutional provision that makes the constitution and federal laws superior to all conflicting state and local laws.
Anti-Federalists
They opposed the ratification of the constitution, they opposed the powerful central gov. and wanted the state gov. to have more power. They feared the loss of the rights of the people.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
The Pursuit of Equality
Know: Leveling, Society of the Cincinnati, Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, Abigail Adams, Republican Motherhood, John Singleton Copley
1. What social changes resulted from the American Revolution?
Most states reduced property-holding requirements for voting. Ordinary men and women were addressed as "Mr." and "Mrs.", which were titles that used to be reserved for the wealthy and highborn. Servitude was virtually unknown by 1800. Got rid of medieval inheritance laws like primogeniture. A separation of church and state. Freedom of slaves, some were emancipated, others freed, some states abolished slavery. Some women were in the army disguised as men. NJ allowed women to vote, for a time. Republican motherhood- education opportunities were more abundant.
Constitution Making in the States
Know: State Constitutions, Fundamental Law
2. What was the importance of the state constitutions?
It gave the states some power so that the central gov. weren't too powerful. Each state wrote what they wanted and it was easier to reach agreements. It united the Ams. because a lot of their state constitutions were similar so it showed them that even thought they were in different states, they were still one nation.
Economic Crosscurrents
Know: Navigation Laws, Empress of China, Speculation
3. What were the positive and negative effects of the war on America?
A positive is that they gained a lot of land, old loyalist estates were cut up into small farms. Economic democracy preceded political democracy. Negative was that they were cut off from goods that were imported form Britain and they had to make their own, which resulted in rebellions like the Brandywine Creek rebellion. Another negative is the British navigation laws, which became even more disagreeable. Another positive was that they got new commercial outlets, the Am. could now freely trade with foreign nations. Negative was that the war had caused a huge debt.
A Shaky Start toward Union
Know: Natural Rights
4. Why was the end of the war difficult on the national government?
They had to create and operate a new central gov. American leaders preached natural rights and were suspicious of an authority figure. Am was just a name, not a nation yet. The departure of the Tories left the political system inclined toward experimentation and innovation. Patriots' allegiance of a common cause was gone. British manufacturers began flooding the Am market with cut-rate goods. War-baby industries suffered.
Creating a Confederation
Know: Sovereignty, Articles of Confederation
5. What forces served to unify the separate states during the war?
Congress created the Articles of Confederation and it needed all 13 state's approval for ratification. Also congress pledged itself to dispose of the vast land for common benefit. It agreed to carve out a number of republican states which would be admitted to the union on terms of complete equality with all the others.
The Articles of Confederation: America's First Constitution
6. What weaknesses plagued the Articles of Confederation? What was good about it?
There was no Chief Executive - Congress used committees to get their work accomplished, passing a law took approval of 9 of the 13 states, amending the document required approval of 13 of the 13 states, congress could request the states pay taxes, but they couldn’t force them to pay, Congress could borrow money, Congress possessed no power to control commerce - foreign or domestic, Congress could make treaties but had no power to require the states to follow them, Congress could make laws but had no power to force the states to abide by them, no National court system. It was good because it proved to be a landmark in gov., it was a model of what a loose confederation and it was better than other countries'.
Landmarks in Land Laws
Know: Old Northwest, Land Ordinance of 1785, Northwest Ordinance of 1787
7. Explain the importance of the Land Ordinance of 1785 and the Northwest Ordinance.
The Land Ordinance of 1785 was important in that it helped pay off national debt and each 16th section of land was set aside for schools. The Northwest Ordinance was important because this law helped with the problem of how a nation should deal with its colonies, it proposed a temp tutelage, then permanent equality; it also forbade slavery.
The World's Ugly Duckling
Know: Natchez, Dey of Algiers
8. Using examples, explain the title of this section.
This section describes all the problems America had to face; for example Britain and Spain radiating influence on resentful indians and causing grief for Americans. Also, France's insistence in repayment of money loaned during the war and they also restricted trade with their bustling West Indies and other ports. The other countries were all treating America like the ugly unwanted duckling, but like the ugly duckling, America later transforms into something others will envy a bustling, economically well-off nation.
The Horrid Specter of Anarchy
Know: Shay's Rebellion, Mobocracy
9. Were the United States of America in danger of falling apart under the Articles of Confederation? Explain.
Yes, the strong state governments were causing alarming quarrels and antagonism between states. Paper money with little value was printed in each state and so going to a different state was like going to a different country. The high class feared rebellions like Shay's Rebellion and thought of the monster of mobocracy. The debtors were rebelling. Almost all agreed that the Articles needed to be strengthened.
A Convention of "Demigods"
Know: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Patrick Henry
10. What kind of men gathered in Philadelphia for the "sole and express purpose of revising" the old government?
They were all leaders appointed by the state legislatures, wise members had been elected by voters who could qualify as property holders. They were all of high class, they were the from the ablest of men. Most were lawyers and experienced in making constitutions for their own states. Most of the revolution leaders were absent.
Patriots in Philadelphia
11. How does George Washington's quote, "We have, probably, had too good an opinion of human nature in forming our confederation." help to explain the purposes of our founding fathers.
People are rebellious by nature, they'll have to be coerced into following the rules of a new government instead of peacefully joining it.
Hammering out a Bundle of Compromises
Know: Virginia (large state) Plan, Bicameral Legislature, New Jersey (small state) Plan, Great Compromise, Electoral College, Three-fifths Compromise
12. Describe the compromises that were achieved by the delegates to the Constitutional Convention.
Virginia's large state plan and New Jersey's small state plan proposed and a debate was taken up. Soon a compromise was suggested and the Great Compromise was created. Larger states got representation by population in the House of Representatives and the smaller states got what they wanted in the equal representatives in the Senate; and so a bicameral legislature was created. The president had the power to wage war but congress had the power to declare war. A key compromise was while the large states would have the advantage in the first round of popular voting, the small stated had a larger voice if no candidate got a majority of electoral votes and the election was given to the House of Reps.
Safeguards for Conservatism
Know: Checks and Balances, Separation of Powers
13. How democratic was the Constitution as originally written?
It wasn't very democratic but it had a democratic element. People feared the "mobocracy" and they put up safeguards agains democracy and made them as strong as they dared. The president was indirectly elected by the Electoral College and senators were chosen indirectly by state legislatures. Only in House of Reps was there a direct election by the common people. There was still democracy, the virtue of the people, not the authority of the state, was to be the ultimate guarantor of liberty, justice, and order. The members of the convention had to adopt what was acceptable to the entire body and supposedly the country.
The Clash of Federalists and Anti- federalists
Know: Anti- federalists, Federalists
14. Who were the anti- federalists and why did they oppose the Constitution?
They're leaders were revolutionaries like Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and Richard Henry Lee. Their followers consisted mostly of states' rights devotees, backcountry dwellers, and basically the poorest classes; aka the majority of people. They opposed the stronger federal government of the new constitution.
The Great Debate in the States
15. Did most of the states approve of the Constitution? Why?
Yes, nine out of the thirteen eventually approved of it. Pennsylvania quickly accepted it because it got off well, Massachusetts tested it and the absence of a bill of rights alarmed antifederalists but the federalists assured their worries and so Massachusetts ratified it. Three more states after that accepted it, federalists arranged a prompt adjournment and won over the indecisive.
The Four Laggard States
Know: Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, The Federalist
16. Explain some of the opposition to ratification of the Constitution?
Virginia was full of antifederalists and they professed to see the death of liberty with the new constitution also with the ratification of the new constitution Virginia couldn't live comfortably as an independent state. NY was also super antifederalist. Rhode Island was the problem state and continued to be so and North Carolina adjoined without taking a vote.
A Conservative Triumph
17. What does your text mean when it says that the Constitution, "...elevated the ideals of the Revolution even while setting boundaries to them."?
The minority won again, and the transition was peaceful. Only about 1/4 of the adult white males in the country had voted for the ratifying delegates. Conservationism was winning, since safeguards had been put up against mob-rule excesses. Revolutionaries against Britain had been defeated by revolutionaries against the Articles. It was a type of counterrevolution.
Chapter #10: Launching the New Ship of State – Big Picture Ideas
1. Alexander Hamilton, get the U.S. on a solid foothold. With the Bill of Rights quickly ratified, the top problem the new nation faced was financial in nature.
2. Secretary of State Alexander Hamilton developed a plan that included (a) starting a national tariff, (b) starting a tax on whiskey, (c) setting up a national bank, and (d) paying off the national debt.
3. Politics quickly fell into two camps: (a) those who followed Thomas Jefferson became the “Democratic-Republicans” and (b) those who followed Alexander Hamilton became the “Federalists.”
4. Turmoil broke out Europe with the French Revolution, mostly between England and France. The U.S. nearly got sucked into European issues, but both Washington and John Adams kept the America out of war. This was best for the U.S.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Washington’s Cabinet
It wasn't stated in the constitution, but what was stated in the constitution was so cumbersome that cabinet meetings gradually evolved. At first, there were only 3 full-fledged department heads: Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of the Treasury Alex Hamilton, and Secretary of War Henry Knox.
Judiciary Act of 1789
Organized the Supreme Court, with a chief justice and five associates, federal district and circuit courts, and established the office of attorney general. 1st congress nailed other newly sawed gov. planks into place under this act.
Federalists
Also known as Hamiltonians, they were for loose interpretation of the constitution. Founded in 1792, ended in 1816.
Democratic-Republicans
Emerged in 1792, for literal interpretation of constitution. Also known as Jeffersonians. They wanted to honor alliance with France.
Hamilton’s vision vs. Jefferson’s vision
Hamilton preferred loose interpretation of the constitution, he wanted a bank and a cabinet, etc. Hamilton also wanted a strong central government.
Jefferson wanted a strict and literal interpretation of the constitution, if it wasn't on there, it should not be done. Also he was very for the people, as in he believed in giving a lot of power to the people. He also wanted strong state governments.
Report on Manufactures and Report on the Public Credit
Manufacture: It projected the future of the U.S and its place in the world's economy. It was written by Hamilton and he urged congress to promote manufacturing so the U.S could be independent, and so the U.S can make the global market equal.
Public Credit: It was written by Hamilton and it contained recommendations that would strengthen the country's credit, enabling it to defer paying its debt, and it enticed rich investors to place their capital at its service.
Jay’s Treaty
The Brit's promised to evacuate the chain of posts on U.S soil, consented to pay damages for the recent seizures of Am. ships (not future), and Jay binder the U.S to pay the debts owed to Brit merchants. Spain made a deal with U.S
Pinckney’s Treaty
It granted the Am. with almost anything they demanded, including free navigation of Mississippi and territory north of Florida.
Washington’s Farewell Address
Delivered in 1796, and printed on newspapers instead of delivered orally, he strongly advised the avoidance of "permanent" alliances. He didn't oppose all alliances, just permanent ones.
Midnight appointments
It refers to federal government on last. John Adams helped create.
Revolution of 1800
It was Jefferson's view on his election to presidency. He claimed that the election of 1800 represented a return to the original spirit of the rev. His goals for his rev were to restore the republican experiment, check the growth of gov. power, and to stop the end of virtue.
Judiciary Act of 1801
It was one of the last important laws passed by the ending federalist congress. It created 16 new federal judges and other judicial offices. It was Adam's last attempt to keep federalists in power. His goal was for the federalists to dominate the judicial branch.
XYZ Affair
Between America and France. There French wanted a loan and secretly given money for the privilege of talking to the French foreign minister Tallyrand. Negotiations broke down and John Marshall was hailed as a hero.
Chisholm v Georgia
It was a supreme court case. The heirs of Alexander Chisholm sued the state of Georgia. The supreme court upheld the rights of citizens of one state to sue another state and decided against Georgia. It granted federal courts the power to hear disputes between citizens and states.(1793)
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
Washington for President
Know: George Washington, Cabinet, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox
1. Was Washington an important president? Explain.
Yes, he was voted for unanimously and everyone favored and supported him. He gave good advice when he warned the country to not be involved in foreign affairs while the country was still weak and new. Also, he resigned after two terms so the two term presidency was started by him.
The Bill of Rights
Know: James Madison, Ninth Amendment, Tenth Amendment, Judiciary Act, John Jay
2. What important steps were taken by the first congress?
The congress ratified the the amendments of the constitution, which James Madison was determined to make happen. The Bill of Rights was created and it protects some of the most precious Am. principles. The 9th amendment was crucial-certain rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. Also the 10th amendment- chick reserves all rights not explicitly delegated or prohibited by the federal Constitution.
Hamilton Revives the Corpse of Public Credit
Know: Funding at Par, Assumption of State Debts
3. How did Alexander Hamilton's economic plans lead to the District of Columbia?
He urged congress to fund entire national debt at par, and to assume the debts incurred in the war. Also, he urged it to assume the state debts, which made some happy and some angry. Virginia didn't want the state debts to be assumed but it did want the federal district, the District of Columbia, to be located on the potomac.
Customs Duties and Excise Taxes
Know: Revenue Tariffs, Protective Tariffs, Excise Taxes
4. Explain Hamilton's overall economic plan for America.
He believed that a national debt was a "national blessing" that united people. He thought that more people who were owed would equal more people with a personal stake in the success of his enterprise. He made debt an asset for vitalizing the financial system and the government. He created Tariff revenues which relied on heavy foreign trade. The first tariff law was quickly passed. Hamilton had vision to see that the industrial revolution would reach Am. and he argued for the protection of manufacturing groups. He also wanted an excise tax on domestic things, like whiskey.
Hamilton Battles Jefferson for a Bank
Know: Bank of the United States, Strict Construction, Loose Construction, Elastic Clause
5. How did the issue of the Bank of the United States reveal a difference in understanding about the Constitution between Jefferson and Hamilton?
The constitution never stated it'd be ok to create a national bank and as an anti-fedralist and believer in strict construction, Jefferson was supremely against it. He wanted to follow the constitution by the letter. But Hamilton was for loose construction and he felt that a bank would help. Jefferson believed that all not granted to the central government was reserved for state governments. Hamilton believed that by the implied powers that a bank was necessary. The Bank of the United States was created.
Mutinous Moonshiners in Pennsylvania
Know: Whiskey Rebellion
6. Was the Whiskey Rebellion a victory for freedom, order, or both? Explain.
It was a victory for order. The rebellion was minor with major effects in that, it was easily crushed and handled by the government. 13 thousand men were gathered to put down this rebellion and this showed that George Washington's government was stronger than before and it commanded respect.
The Emergence of Political Parties
Know: Factions, Parties
7. Why did political parties develop during George Washington's presidency? Were they good or bad?
They developed because his two advisors, Hamilton and Jefferson, were from the federalist and anti-fedralist parties, respectively. Hamilton's financial success encroached states' rights and many Am.'s that were skeptics of the new constitution in the first place were enraged. They were thus the anti-fedralist party. The creation of two different factions or parties, was actually a good thing because they balanced each other out. The party out of power at a time ensures that the politics never drifts too far with the wishes of people. No one idea, group has the most power.
The Impact of the French Revolution
Know: Democratic-Republicans, Federalists, French Revolution, Reign of Terror
8. In what way did the French Revolution expose the differing views of Democratic-Republicans and Federalists?
Major federalists were openly hostile to it while the major Jeffersonians were totally for it. Mild federalists that were for it in the beginning became completely against it and the Jeffersonians were regretful of the bloodshed but understood it.
Washington's Neutrality Proclamation
Know: Franco-American Alliance, Neutrality Proclamation, Citizen Genet
9. Explain the reasoning for and against Washington's Neutrality Proclamation.
For is that France could take advantage of America, like when Edmond Genet tried to rally Jeffersonians to invade other territories. Also, if the U.S favored one side, then it would make an enemy of the other and Am at that time couldn't afford that because it was still new and weak; also, if Am. favored the French, then the British fleets would have cut off supplies for both Am and France. Against it would be it could lose allies and maybe even gain two enemies.
Embroilments with Britain
Know: Anthony Wayne, Battle of Fallen Timbers, Treaty of Greenville
10. How did British actions towards Native Americans and American merchant ships incite many Americans?
Britain's cruel treatment incensed patriotic Am. and an outcry rose, mostly from Jeffersonians, that Am should fight George III again in defense. Or at least cut off all supplies to Britain, but Hamiltonians disagreed.
Jay's Treaty and Washington's Farewell
Know: Jay's Treaty, Farewell Address
11. Did John Jay betray American interests in Jay's Treaty.
No, it didn't. He tried his best, but the British gave little concessions. He couldn't do anything about it, it was either accept what little had been offered or get nothing at all.
John Adams Becomes President
Know: John Adams, High Federalists
12. What handicaps did John Adams face as he became president?
He was disliked and thought of as stuffy and a tactless prickly aristocrat, but he impressed observers, though he was still regarded with "respectful irritation". He stepped into Washington's shoes, which no one could've hoped to fill. He was also hated by Hamilton, who now headed the war faction of the Federalist party and who secretly plotted with others against the president, so Adams had a conspiracy on his hands. Also, very importantly, he inherited a violent fight with France, a very close to exploding quarrel.
Unofficial Fighting with France
Know: John Marshall, XYZ Affair, "Millions for Defense, but Not One Cent for Tribute
13. What French actions brought America close to war in the closing years of the 18th century?
French warships began to seize defenseless American merchant vessels in retaliation of Jay's treat, so it interrupted trade and brought America close to war. Also the XYZ affair was a major contribution.
Adams Puts Patriotism above Party
Know: Napoleon Bonaparte, Convention of 1800
14. How did avoiding war with France hurt John Adams' political career?
Americans were angry at the French and wanted revenge, not peace. Also, Alex Hamilton war with France and being such an influential figure, caused disruption in Adams' political career.
The Federalist Witch Hunt
Know: Alien Laws, Sedition Act
15. Explain the reasons for the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts.
The alien act was passed because the aristocratic federalists hoped to discourage the dregs of Europe from coming and voting in favor of poorer and more populous Jeffersonians. The Sedition act was passes because the federalists felt it was justified and because the verbal violence was unrestrained and foul-penned editors, some aliens, vilified Adams' anti-French policy in vicious terms.
The Virginia (Madison) and Kentucky (Jefferson) Resolutions
Know: Compact Theory, Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions, Nullification
16. Which was more dangerous to the US Constitution: the Alien and Sedition Acts or the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions? Explain.
The Alien and Sedition Acts because it violates the first amendments and as it causes resentment in the majority of the populace.
Federalists versus Democratic-Republicans
17. What were some key differences between Federalists and Democratic Republicans?
Some key differences were Hamiltonian federalists favored a strong central government with power to stop democratic excesses, protect the lives and estates of the wealthy, etc. Basically, the federalists wanted to protect the minority, the wealthy. They believed in loose construction of the constitution. The Democratic-Republicans believed in appeal to the middle class and the under privileged, the poor, the majority. It called for strict construction of the constitution and a weak central government. They believed in strong state governments. It advocated the rule of the people; government for the people but not by all the people, just the ones literate enough.
1. The Articles of Confederation, the first government set up after the American Revolution, was structured out of fear of a too-strong government. Therefore, the Articles were very weak on purpose.
2. Two things showed the Articles as being too weak to the point of being sterile: (a) it could not regulate commerce and the money situation was growing dim fast and (b) Shays’ Rebellion frightened many to the possibility that mobs might just take over and the government might be too weak to stop them. Due to these reasons, the Constitutional Convention was held.
3. The Constitution was written as something of a balancing act between strengthening the government, yet making sure it doesn’t get too strong to take over. The resulting government was indeed stronger, but also a system of checks and balances were put into place to ensure no one branch becomes like the king had been.
4. After some negotiating, mostly with the promise of the Bill of Rights, the Constitution was ratified.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
John Locke’s Second Treatise of Government
It stated that all humans have a right to life, liberty, and property and that gov. exist to protect those rights. It rejected the theory of divine right of monarchy and believed in a social contract that existed between gov. and people. If gov. failed, people can rebel.
Federalist #10
Written by James Madison and it's the tenth of the federalist papers and it argued for the ratification of the constitution. Published Nov. 22, 1787 by Publius. It was very highly regarded. It refuted the conventional wisdom which stated that it was possible to extend a republican form of gov. over a big area.
Republican Government
It's a political theory of rep. gov.; it was based on the principle of popular sovereignty and heavy emphasis on liberty an dcivic virtue. It was influential in the 18th century and it was an alternative to monarchy.
Land Ordinance of 1785
It provided that the acreage of the old northwest should be sold and the proceeds should be used to pay oof national debt.
Land Ordinance of 1787
It related to the governing of the Old Northwest. This law dealt with the problem of how a nation should deal with its colonies. It forbade slavery in the new lands/territories.
Necessary and Proper Clause
It's a constitutional clause that gives congress the right and power to make all laws necessary and proper for executing its powers. Hamilton used this to do all that he did that wasn't stated directly in the constitution.
Federalist Papers
It was a collection of essays written by John Jay, Hamilton, and Madison. It was under the pseudonym Publius. It was published in the NY newspaper. It explained how the new gov./constitution would work. It's purpose was to convince the NY legislature to ratify the constitution.
Shays Rebellion
It was a rebellion led by Daniel Shay, made up of debtors seeking lower taxes and property foreclosures. Farmers were angry that the lost their land. Though it was quickly put down, it signaled the need for a stronger central gov.
Annapolis Convention
It was in 1786, and congress' inability to control commerce was causing issues. Interstate fights was happening more and more and so Virginia called a convention. 9 states appointed delegates but only 5 were represented. Alex Hamilton saved the convention form failure by drafting a report that called on congress to summon another convention.
Philadelphia Convention
In 1787, 12 colonies sent delegates to revise the Articles of Confederation, only revise, but the delegates agreed the U.S needed a new constitution.
Delegated Powers
Its powers given to the federal gov. by the constitution.
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Reserved Powers
Powers that remain with the states after other powers were delegated to the national gov. but the constitution.
Concurrent Powers
Powers that are shared by both the federal and the state gov.
Supremacy Clause
It was the constitutional provision that makes the constitution and federal laws superior to all conflicting state and local laws.
Anti-Federalists
They opposed the ratification of the constitution, they opposed the powerful central gov. and wanted the state gov. to have more power. They feared the loss of the rights of the people.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
The Pursuit of Equality
Know: Leveling, Society of the Cincinnati, Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, Abigail Adams, Republican Motherhood, John Singleton Copley
1. What social changes resulted from the American Revolution?
Most states reduced property-holding requirements for voting. Ordinary men and women were addressed as "Mr." and "Mrs.", which were titles that used to be reserved for the wealthy and highborn. Servitude was virtually unknown by 1800. Got rid of medieval inheritance laws like primogeniture. A separation of church and state. Freedom of slaves, some were emancipated, others freed, some states abolished slavery. Some women were in the army disguised as men. NJ allowed women to vote, for a time. Republican motherhood- education opportunities were more abundant.
Constitution Making in the States
Know: State Constitutions, Fundamental Law
2. What was the importance of the state constitutions?
It gave the states some power so that the central gov. weren't too powerful. Each state wrote what they wanted and it was easier to reach agreements. It united the Ams. because a lot of their state constitutions were similar so it showed them that even thought they were in different states, they were still one nation.
Economic Crosscurrents
Know: Navigation Laws, Empress of China, Speculation
3. What were the positive and negative effects of the war on America?
A positive is that they gained a lot of land, old loyalist estates were cut up into small farms. Economic democracy preceded political democracy. Negative was that they were cut off from goods that were imported form Britain and they had to make their own, which resulted in rebellions like the Brandywine Creek rebellion. Another negative is the British navigation laws, which became even more disagreeable. Another positive was that they got new commercial outlets, the Am. could now freely trade with foreign nations. Negative was that the war had caused a huge debt.
A Shaky Start toward Union
Know: Natural Rights
4. Why was the end of the war difficult on the national government?
They had to create and operate a new central gov. American leaders preached natural rights and were suspicious of an authority figure. Am was just a name, not a nation yet. The departure of the Tories left the political system inclined toward experimentation and innovation. Patriots' allegiance of a common cause was gone. British manufacturers began flooding the Am market with cut-rate goods. War-baby industries suffered.
Creating a Confederation
Know: Sovereignty, Articles of Confederation
5. What forces served to unify the separate states during the war?
Congress created the Articles of Confederation and it needed all 13 state's approval for ratification. Also congress pledged itself to dispose of the vast land for common benefit. It agreed to carve out a number of republican states which would be admitted to the union on terms of complete equality with all the others.
The Articles of Confederation: America's First Constitution
6. What weaknesses plagued the Articles of Confederation? What was good about it?
There was no Chief Executive - Congress used committees to get their work accomplished, passing a law took approval of 9 of the 13 states, amending the document required approval of 13 of the 13 states, congress could request the states pay taxes, but they couldn’t force them to pay, Congress could borrow money, Congress possessed no power to control commerce - foreign or domestic, Congress could make treaties but had no power to require the states to follow them, Congress could make laws but had no power to force the states to abide by them, no National court system. It was good because it proved to be a landmark in gov., it was a model of what a loose confederation and it was better than other countries'.
Landmarks in Land Laws
Know: Old Northwest, Land Ordinance of 1785, Northwest Ordinance of 1787
7. Explain the importance of the Land Ordinance of 1785 and the Northwest Ordinance.
The Land Ordinance of 1785 was important in that it helped pay off national debt and each 16th section of land was set aside for schools. The Northwest Ordinance was important because this law helped with the problem of how a nation should deal with its colonies, it proposed a temp tutelage, then permanent equality; it also forbade slavery.
The World's Ugly Duckling
Know: Natchez, Dey of Algiers
8. Using examples, explain the title of this section.
This section describes all the problems America had to face; for example Britain and Spain radiating influence on resentful indians and causing grief for Americans. Also, France's insistence in repayment of money loaned during the war and they also restricted trade with their bustling West Indies and other ports. The other countries were all treating America like the ugly unwanted duckling, but like the ugly duckling, America later transforms into something others will envy a bustling, economically well-off nation.
The Horrid Specter of Anarchy
Know: Shay's Rebellion, Mobocracy
9. Were the United States of America in danger of falling apart under the Articles of Confederation? Explain.
Yes, the strong state governments were causing alarming quarrels and antagonism between states. Paper money with little value was printed in each state and so going to a different state was like going to a different country. The high class feared rebellions like Shay's Rebellion and thought of the monster of mobocracy. The debtors were rebelling. Almost all agreed that the Articles needed to be strengthened.
A Convention of "Demigods"
Know: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Patrick Henry
10. What kind of men gathered in Philadelphia for the "sole and express purpose of revising" the old government?
They were all leaders appointed by the state legislatures, wise members had been elected by voters who could qualify as property holders. They were all of high class, they were the from the ablest of men. Most were lawyers and experienced in making constitutions for their own states. Most of the revolution leaders were absent.
Patriots in Philadelphia
11. How does George Washington's quote, "We have, probably, had too good an opinion of human nature in forming our confederation." help to explain the purposes of our founding fathers.
People are rebellious by nature, they'll have to be coerced into following the rules of a new government instead of peacefully joining it.
Hammering out a Bundle of Compromises
Know: Virginia (large state) Plan, Bicameral Legislature, New Jersey (small state) Plan, Great Compromise, Electoral College, Three-fifths Compromise
12. Describe the compromises that were achieved by the delegates to the Constitutional Convention.
Virginia's large state plan and New Jersey's small state plan proposed and a debate was taken up. Soon a compromise was suggested and the Great Compromise was created. Larger states got representation by population in the House of Representatives and the smaller states got what they wanted in the equal representatives in the Senate; and so a bicameral legislature was created. The president had the power to wage war but congress had the power to declare war. A key compromise was while the large states would have the advantage in the first round of popular voting, the small stated had a larger voice if no candidate got a majority of electoral votes and the election was given to the House of Reps.
Safeguards for Conservatism
Know: Checks and Balances, Separation of Powers
13. How democratic was the Constitution as originally written?
It wasn't very democratic but it had a democratic element. People feared the "mobocracy" and they put up safeguards agains democracy and made them as strong as they dared. The president was indirectly elected by the Electoral College and senators were chosen indirectly by state legislatures. Only in House of Reps was there a direct election by the common people. There was still democracy, the virtue of the people, not the authority of the state, was to be the ultimate guarantor of liberty, justice, and order. The members of the convention had to adopt what was acceptable to the entire body and supposedly the country.
The Clash of Federalists and Anti- federalists
Know: Anti- federalists, Federalists
14. Who were the anti- federalists and why did they oppose the Constitution?
They're leaders were revolutionaries like Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and Richard Henry Lee. Their followers consisted mostly of states' rights devotees, backcountry dwellers, and basically the poorest classes; aka the majority of people. They opposed the stronger federal government of the new constitution.
The Great Debate in the States
15. Did most of the states approve of the Constitution? Why?
Yes, nine out of the thirteen eventually approved of it. Pennsylvania quickly accepted it because it got off well, Massachusetts tested it and the absence of a bill of rights alarmed antifederalists but the federalists assured their worries and so Massachusetts ratified it. Three more states after that accepted it, federalists arranged a prompt adjournment and won over the indecisive.
The Four Laggard States
Know: Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, The Federalist
16. Explain some of the opposition to ratification of the Constitution?
Virginia was full of antifederalists and they professed to see the death of liberty with the new constitution also with the ratification of the new constitution Virginia couldn't live comfortably as an independent state. NY was also super antifederalist. Rhode Island was the problem state and continued to be so and North Carolina adjoined without taking a vote.
A Conservative Triumph
17. What does your text mean when it says that the Constitution, "...elevated the ideals of the Revolution even while setting boundaries to them."?
The minority won again, and the transition was peaceful. Only about 1/4 of the adult white males in the country had voted for the ratifying delegates. Conservationism was winning, since safeguards had been put up against mob-rule excesses. Revolutionaries against Britain had been defeated by revolutionaries against the Articles. It was a type of counterrevolution.
Chapter #10: Launching the New Ship of State – Big Picture Ideas
1. Alexander Hamilton, get the U.S. on a solid foothold. With the Bill of Rights quickly ratified, the top problem the new nation faced was financial in nature.
2. Secretary of State Alexander Hamilton developed a plan that included (a) starting a national tariff, (b) starting a tax on whiskey, (c) setting up a national bank, and (d) paying off the national debt.
3. Politics quickly fell into two camps: (a) those who followed Thomas Jefferson became the “Democratic-Republicans” and (b) those who followed Alexander Hamilton became the “Federalists.”
4. Turmoil broke out Europe with the French Revolution, mostly between England and France. The U.S. nearly got sucked into European issues, but both Washington and John Adams kept the America out of war. This was best for the U.S.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Washington’s Cabinet
It wasn't stated in the constitution, but what was stated in the constitution was so cumbersome that cabinet meetings gradually evolved. At first, there were only 3 full-fledged department heads: Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of the Treasury Alex Hamilton, and Secretary of War Henry Knox.
Judiciary Act of 1789
Organized the Supreme Court, with a chief justice and five associates, federal district and circuit courts, and established the office of attorney general. 1st congress nailed other newly sawed gov. planks into place under this act.
Federalists
Also known as Hamiltonians, they were for loose interpretation of the constitution. Founded in 1792, ended in 1816.
Democratic-Republicans
Emerged in 1792, for literal interpretation of constitution. Also known as Jeffersonians. They wanted to honor alliance with France.
Hamilton’s vision vs. Jefferson’s vision
Hamilton preferred loose interpretation of the constitution, he wanted a bank and a cabinet, etc. Hamilton also wanted a strong central government.
Jefferson wanted a strict and literal interpretation of the constitution, if it wasn't on there, it should not be done. Also he was very for the people, as in he believed in giving a lot of power to the people. He also wanted strong state governments.
Report on Manufactures and Report on the Public Credit
Manufacture: It projected the future of the U.S and its place in the world's economy. It was written by Hamilton and he urged congress to promote manufacturing so the U.S could be independent, and so the U.S can make the global market equal.
Public Credit: It was written by Hamilton and it contained recommendations that would strengthen the country's credit, enabling it to defer paying its debt, and it enticed rich investors to place their capital at its service.
Jay’s Treaty
The Brit's promised to evacuate the chain of posts on U.S soil, consented to pay damages for the recent seizures of Am. ships (not future), and Jay binder the U.S to pay the debts owed to Brit merchants. Spain made a deal with U.S
Pinckney’s Treaty
It granted the Am. with almost anything they demanded, including free navigation of Mississippi and territory north of Florida.
Washington’s Farewell Address
Delivered in 1796, and printed on newspapers instead of delivered orally, he strongly advised the avoidance of "permanent" alliances. He didn't oppose all alliances, just permanent ones.
Midnight appointments
It refers to federal government on last. John Adams helped create.
Revolution of 1800
It was Jefferson's view on his election to presidency. He claimed that the election of 1800 represented a return to the original spirit of the rev. His goals for his rev were to restore the republican experiment, check the growth of gov. power, and to stop the end of virtue.
Judiciary Act of 1801
It was one of the last important laws passed by the ending federalist congress. It created 16 new federal judges and other judicial offices. It was Adam's last attempt to keep federalists in power. His goal was for the federalists to dominate the judicial branch.
XYZ Affair
Between America and France. There French wanted a loan and secretly given money for the privilege of talking to the French foreign minister Tallyrand. Negotiations broke down and John Marshall was hailed as a hero.
Chisholm v Georgia
It was a supreme court case. The heirs of Alexander Chisholm sued the state of Georgia. The supreme court upheld the rights of citizens of one state to sue another state and decided against Georgia. It granted federal courts the power to hear disputes between citizens and states.(1793)
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
Washington for President
Know: George Washington, Cabinet, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox
1. Was Washington an important president? Explain.
Yes, he was voted for unanimously and everyone favored and supported him. He gave good advice when he warned the country to not be involved in foreign affairs while the country was still weak and new. Also, he resigned after two terms so the two term presidency was started by him.
The Bill of Rights
Know: James Madison, Ninth Amendment, Tenth Amendment, Judiciary Act, John Jay
2. What important steps were taken by the first congress?
The congress ratified the the amendments of the constitution, which James Madison was determined to make happen. The Bill of Rights was created and it protects some of the most precious Am. principles. The 9th amendment was crucial-certain rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. Also the 10th amendment- chick reserves all rights not explicitly delegated or prohibited by the federal Constitution.
Hamilton Revives the Corpse of Public Credit
Know: Funding at Par, Assumption of State Debts
3. How did Alexander Hamilton's economic plans lead to the District of Columbia?
He urged congress to fund entire national debt at par, and to assume the debts incurred in the war. Also, he urged it to assume the state debts, which made some happy and some angry. Virginia didn't want the state debts to be assumed but it did want the federal district, the District of Columbia, to be located on the potomac.
Customs Duties and Excise Taxes
Know: Revenue Tariffs, Protective Tariffs, Excise Taxes
4. Explain Hamilton's overall economic plan for America.
He believed that a national debt was a "national blessing" that united people. He thought that more people who were owed would equal more people with a personal stake in the success of his enterprise. He made debt an asset for vitalizing the financial system and the government. He created Tariff revenues which relied on heavy foreign trade. The first tariff law was quickly passed. Hamilton had vision to see that the industrial revolution would reach Am. and he argued for the protection of manufacturing groups. He also wanted an excise tax on domestic things, like whiskey.
Hamilton Battles Jefferson for a Bank
Know: Bank of the United States, Strict Construction, Loose Construction, Elastic Clause
5. How did the issue of the Bank of the United States reveal a difference in understanding about the Constitution between Jefferson and Hamilton?
The constitution never stated it'd be ok to create a national bank and as an anti-fedralist and believer in strict construction, Jefferson was supremely against it. He wanted to follow the constitution by the letter. But Hamilton was for loose construction and he felt that a bank would help. Jefferson believed that all not granted to the central government was reserved for state governments. Hamilton believed that by the implied powers that a bank was necessary. The Bank of the United States was created.
Mutinous Moonshiners in Pennsylvania
Know: Whiskey Rebellion
6. Was the Whiskey Rebellion a victory for freedom, order, or both? Explain.
It was a victory for order. The rebellion was minor with major effects in that, it was easily crushed and handled by the government. 13 thousand men were gathered to put down this rebellion and this showed that George Washington's government was stronger than before and it commanded respect.
The Emergence of Political Parties
Know: Factions, Parties
7. Why did political parties develop during George Washington's presidency? Were they good or bad?
They developed because his two advisors, Hamilton and Jefferson, were from the federalist and anti-fedralist parties, respectively. Hamilton's financial success encroached states' rights and many Am.'s that were skeptics of the new constitution in the first place were enraged. They were thus the anti-fedralist party. The creation of two different factions or parties, was actually a good thing because they balanced each other out. The party out of power at a time ensures that the politics never drifts too far with the wishes of people. No one idea, group has the most power.
The Impact of the French Revolution
Know: Democratic-Republicans, Federalists, French Revolution, Reign of Terror
8. In what way did the French Revolution expose the differing views of Democratic-Republicans and Federalists?
Major federalists were openly hostile to it while the major Jeffersonians were totally for it. Mild federalists that were for it in the beginning became completely against it and the Jeffersonians were regretful of the bloodshed but understood it.
Washington's Neutrality Proclamation
Know: Franco-American Alliance, Neutrality Proclamation, Citizen Genet
9. Explain the reasoning for and against Washington's Neutrality Proclamation.
For is that France could take advantage of America, like when Edmond Genet tried to rally Jeffersonians to invade other territories. Also, if the U.S favored one side, then it would make an enemy of the other and Am at that time couldn't afford that because it was still new and weak; also, if Am. favored the French, then the British fleets would have cut off supplies for both Am and France. Against it would be it could lose allies and maybe even gain two enemies.
Embroilments with Britain
Know: Anthony Wayne, Battle of Fallen Timbers, Treaty of Greenville
10. How did British actions towards Native Americans and American merchant ships incite many Americans?
Britain's cruel treatment incensed patriotic Am. and an outcry rose, mostly from Jeffersonians, that Am should fight George III again in defense. Or at least cut off all supplies to Britain, but Hamiltonians disagreed.
Jay's Treaty and Washington's Farewell
Know: Jay's Treaty, Farewell Address
11. Did John Jay betray American interests in Jay's Treaty.
No, it didn't. He tried his best, but the British gave little concessions. He couldn't do anything about it, it was either accept what little had been offered or get nothing at all.
John Adams Becomes President
Know: John Adams, High Federalists
12. What handicaps did John Adams face as he became president?
He was disliked and thought of as stuffy and a tactless prickly aristocrat, but he impressed observers, though he was still regarded with "respectful irritation". He stepped into Washington's shoes, which no one could've hoped to fill. He was also hated by Hamilton, who now headed the war faction of the Federalist party and who secretly plotted with others against the president, so Adams had a conspiracy on his hands. Also, very importantly, he inherited a violent fight with France, a very close to exploding quarrel.
Unofficial Fighting with France
Know: John Marshall, XYZ Affair, "Millions for Defense, but Not One Cent for Tribute
13. What French actions brought America close to war in the closing years of the 18th century?
French warships began to seize defenseless American merchant vessels in retaliation of Jay's treat, so it interrupted trade and brought America close to war. Also the XYZ affair was a major contribution.
Adams Puts Patriotism above Party
Know: Napoleon Bonaparte, Convention of 1800
14. How did avoiding war with France hurt John Adams' political career?
Americans were angry at the French and wanted revenge, not peace. Also, Alex Hamilton war with France and being such an influential figure, caused disruption in Adams' political career.
The Federalist Witch Hunt
Know: Alien Laws, Sedition Act
15. Explain the reasons for the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts.
The alien act was passed because the aristocratic federalists hoped to discourage the dregs of Europe from coming and voting in favor of poorer and more populous Jeffersonians. The Sedition act was passes because the federalists felt it was justified and because the verbal violence was unrestrained and foul-penned editors, some aliens, vilified Adams' anti-French policy in vicious terms.
The Virginia (Madison) and Kentucky (Jefferson) Resolutions
Know: Compact Theory, Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions, Nullification
16. Which was more dangerous to the US Constitution: the Alien and Sedition Acts or the Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions? Explain.
The Alien and Sedition Acts because it violates the first amendments and as it causes resentment in the majority of the populace.
Federalists versus Democratic-Republicans
17. What were some key differences between Federalists and Democratic Republicans?
Some key differences were Hamiltonian federalists favored a strong central government with power to stop democratic excesses, protect the lives and estates of the wealthy, etc. Basically, the federalists wanted to protect the minority, the wealthy. They believed in loose construction of the constitution. The Democratic-Republicans believed in appeal to the middle class and the under privileged, the poor, the majority. It called for strict construction of the constitution and a weak central government. They believed in strong state governments. It advocated the rule of the people; government for the people but not by all the people, just the ones literate enough.