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Creation of the Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation represent the first constitution for the 13 American states. There was a need for unity among the new states. The relative powers of the individual states and the Continental Congress also needed to be defined for the young country. -
Virginia Plan
Virginia delegate proposed a plan for the ratification of the Articles of Confederation. it proposed: a national government consisting of three branches with checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power. and two houses, using the states population to divide seats among the states. strong centrsl govt. -
New Jersey Plan
New Jerseys plan in retalliation to the Virginia Plan, more in favor of a weak central govt. and strong states govt. wanted equal representation with votes, instead of by population. -
Great Compromise
Also known as the Connecticut Compromise. presented a commonground between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey plan. a two-house legislature, consisting of a Senate and a House of Representatives. The Senate would have an equal number of representatives from each state. The House of Representatives would include one representative for each 30,000 individuals in a state. -
Shay's Rebellion
A group of farmers, lead by Daniel Shay began an uprising over the high taxes imposed on them by their state government. -
Signing of the Constitution
After four months of many meetings and proposals the final draft of the constitution was finally signed. the constitution created structure and limitations for all of the branches of the government. with a strong national government.