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Declaring Independence
Congress declared independence from Britain and shortly after the Declaration of Independence was signed. Following this event, colonies became states and each state created it's own individual constitution. -
Articles of Confederation are Accepted by Congress
The Articles of Confederation are accepted by Congress, and they now must be submitted for ratification and accepted by the states. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
The Articles of Confederation were ratified and these let each state operate like individual countries. Congress posed as the national government, but they has limited powers as they could not make the states give into their requests. -
Battle of Yorktown
This was the final battle of the Revolutionary War, marking the American victory over the British. -
Shay's Rebellion
When farmers in Massachusetts quickly fell into debt and began to face imprisonment or losing their land, they were quick to attack their state government. The state called upon the national government at the time (Congress) for aid, but their was none. This was a red flag that needed to be recognized in the new government. -
Meeting in Annapolis
Five representatives meet in Annapolis, Maryland to discuss the government. It is decided that a later meeting needs to be called so all the states can be represented. -
Beginning of Constitutional Convention
55 delegates representing various states meet up in Philadelphia, PA to create an entirely new government. The only thing they decided in this period however was that George Washington would be elected into office. -
Ending of Constitutional Convention
A Constitution is created at this point and now states must approve and recognize the new document before it can be applied. -
The Constitution is Ratified
New Hampshire is the ninth state to recognize the Constitution and it becomes the "land of the law". Within the next two years the remaining states would also recognize the Constitution. -
The Government is Fully Operative
The Supreme Court held it's first session, marking the date that the new government was fully operative.
