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Articles of Confederation Adopted
The United States’ first attempt at its own system of government, although it failed miserably. -
Treaty of Paris
Marked an official end to the revolutionary war which meant that the united states was an officially recognized state. -
Shays Rebellion
Shays' Rebellion was an armed uprising in Massachusetts during 1786 and 1787. Revolutionary War veteran Daniel Shays led four thousand farmers in an uprising against perceived economic and civil rights injustices. No federal government or court system to end the rebellion. -
The Constitutional Convention
Convention was held in order to discuss possible improvements to the articles of confederation. The final result of the convention was the creation of the U.S. constitution. -
Three-Fifths Compromise
Slaves count as three-fifths of a person towards a states total population. States with more slaves were given more representation in Congress -
Commerce Compromise
United States Congress shall have power "To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes." That meant that the state holds power to control interstate trade and trade with other countries. -
Virginia Plan
Proposed a strong central government composed of three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. The plan was drafted by James Madison. Idea that larger populations should have more representation. -
New Jersey Plan
Presented the idea that all states have equal representation; was the idea that led to the creation of the senate -
Northwest Ordinance
The ordinance created the Northwest Territory, which was the first organized territory in the U.S. It was considered one of the most important acts of the confederation congress. -
The Great Compromise
Compromise that established a bicameral legislature; established the Senate and House of Representatives (population based). Combined Virginia and New Jersey Plans. -
Federalist Papers
A collection of letters written to the press to promote ratification of the constitution. This was one of the first examples of the press promoting different political views. Mainly in New York to convince the state to ratify the Constitution. -
Signing of the Constitution
The Constitution of the United States of America was signed by 38 of 41 delegates present at the conclusion of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. -
The constitution ratified by first state
Delaware became the first state to ratify the constitution, establishing our current system of government. -
First President of the United States was Elected
The first president was George Washington, who was a politician and a soldier, he was admired for his strong leadership skills. This marked the start to a successful country. -
Constitution Ratified by Final State
Rhode Island was the last state to ratify the Constitution, formally establishing our government. -
Bill of Rights added to Constitution
The first ten amendments added to provide citizens with more rights. Anti-Federalists wanted more individuality.