Bell-ringer (in your spiral!)
• What were the Articles of Confederation?
• What were some weaknesses of the Articles of
Confederation?
A Letter of Invitation
• On February 21, 1787, the Continental Congress
resolved that:
...it is expedient that on the second Monday in
May next a Convention of delegates who shall
have been appointed by the several States be
held at Philladelphia for the sole and express
purpose of revising the Articles of
Confederation...
Weaknesses of the Articles of
Confederation
• Majority of power was granted to States
• Congress had no right to tax, difficult to keep
finances in order
• To change or amend the Articles, unanimous
consent of all states was required.
• There was no central military or monetary
system.
The Constitutional Convention
• The Constitutional Convention of 1787
proposed a new constitution establishing a
much stronger national government.
Tonight’s Homework
• http://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/constituti
on-day/signers.html
• Use the above website to research the signer of the
Constitution that you were assigned. Create a
Facebook Profile of this signer of the Constitutional
Convention.
– Consider the following
• Who are they? What are their credentials? Did they
have an impact on the shape of the Constitution? Bring
a half-page write up in tomorrow and be prepared to
share it with the class!
Bell ringer
• If you were asked to create a new
government, what would you make sure it
included?
• What would it look like? Who would rule?
How?
Today’s Agenda
• Bell-ringer
• Constitutional Convention
– Meet in groups, complete “Creating a
Government” guide
– Constitutional Convention
• Discuss and deliberate
– Homework: Complete “A Government Created”
Welcome to the Constitutional
Convention
Philadelphia, Summer 1787
Important Issues to Consider
• What type of leader should we have?
• Who should be allowed to vote?
• How will each state be represented?
• Should slaves be considered people?
• Your state’s population and geographic location
should help you answer all of the above.
Slaves in the 13 Colonies