The Articles of Confederation
7-1
Objectives
• Learn how the weaknesses of the Articles of
Confederation led to instability.
• Learn how Congress dealt with the western
lands.
Thirteen Independent States
Although the Americans had defeated the British on the battlefield
and had won independence. The nation had to deal with the fact
that 13 States had 13 different plans of government.
State Constitutions
Because of the history with King George III, state legislatures
became the most powerful and influential parts of the government
Dividing Power
Legislative Branch
• An elective body to make
the laws.
• A bicameral, two house
legislature.
Executive Branch
• An elected officer to lead
the state. A governor, or
president
Goals of Government
• Prevent abuse of power.
• Keep power in hands of people.
• Restricted powers of governors.
Forming a Republic
Most Americans favored small local governments. They
believed the states could come together during emergencies such
as war. But nobody had experience at running a country.
Articles of Confederation
Adopted in November 15, 1777.
Maryland ratified the Articles
February 22, 1781. It went into
effect March 1, 1781.
Articles of Confederation
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Strengths
Maintain Army and Navy
Declare War, Make Peace
Make treaties
Borrow money
Establish post office
Print money
Manage affairs with Indians
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Weaknesses
Not levy taxes
Not prevent states from
issuing own money
Amend Articles w/o all 13
states approval
Not make states pay for
national government
Not regulate trade
Not enforce laws
Land Policies
The Or
The Ordinance of 1785
The Land Ordinance
of 1785 established a
procedure by which
the lands owned by the
government would be
surveyed and sold.
Six mille squares
known as townships.
Sub-divided were
called sections. Sales
from section 16 would
support schools.
The Northwest Ordinance
The Northwest Ordinance established the procedure by which
territories could become states. From the Northwest Ordinance,
five states would be admitted to the union.
Financial Problems
Paper Money
• Money issued during the
Revolutionary War had
depreciated in value. Price
of goods skyrocketed.
National Debt
• The debt from the
Revolutionary War needed
to be paid and Congress had
no power to tax.
Robert Morris
The man who was responsible for financing the war. Proposed a
5% tax on imports. The measure failed to pass.
Troubles with European Nations
Great Britain
• Kept troops in western lands
• Closed ports in West Indies
Spain
• Closed the lower
Mississippi River
Self Check
• What were the weaknesses of the Articles of
Confederation?
• What were the two most significant laws
passed under the Articles of Confederation
government?