-
Ratification of Articles of Confederation
The articles of confederation were the framework for a national government in which the states were given most power. It gave Congress powers such conducting war and maintaining foreign relations. However, it prohibited Congress from levying taxes on citizens. It was a revolutionary document because it created a government "by the people, for the people." -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris ended the American Revolutionary War. Three important American delegates included Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay. It made Britain recognize the States as a sovereign nation and expanded American borders, as well as securing important waterways. -
Land Ordinance of 1785
This helped organize the sale of western lands by setting how land would be measured, divided and distributed. It generated revenue for the government, as taxation was not an option at the time. -
Shays' Rebellion
Shays' rebellion highlighted many of the issues presented by the Articles of Confederation. Due to this the Americans recognized the need for a more central government. The Philadelphia Convention met to discuss these issues. -
Northwest Ordinance of 1787
This established the order and equitable procedures for settlement and political incorporation of new territories. Also laid the government for the Northwest territory.
