Unit Three: Road to Constitution

The Articles of Confederation

May 25, 1776

Weaknesses: Weak Federal government, no National army, no National court, no Federal taxes. Strengths: Declare war, strong state power

Constitutional Convention

May 25, 1787

In Philadephia, Delegates from all states came together to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Delegates included: George Washington, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton. The Compromise: Large states and small states would be represented through two houses of congress; one based on state populations and the upper house (Senate) and equal divide.

Creation of the Constitution

Sep 17, 1787

Drafted by many of our founding fathers, the Constitution was drafted on this date and delegates outlined the law of our land

The Constitution: Bill of Rights

Sep 17, 1787

Bill of Rights:
1. Freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, petition
2. Right to bear arms
3. Right against Quartering Acts
4. Right against illegal search and seizures
5. Right to due process
6. Right to speedy trial with court appointed attorney
7. Right to Trial by jury
8. Right against cruel and unusual punishment
9. Enumerated Powers
10. States and Private Persons rights

The Constitution: Components

Sep 17, 1787

1. Preamble: The purpse
2. Article One: The Legislative Branch (Makes Laws)
3. Article Two: The Executive Branch (The President)
4. Article Three: The Judiary (Courts)
5. Article Four: State Rights
6. Article Five: How to draft amendments
7. Article Six: Foreign Policy
8. Article Seven: Ratification
9. Bill of Rights