8/11/2019 The First American Government Guide

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/the-first-american-government-guide 1/2

The First American GovernmentThe Articles of Confederation reading guide

As a citizen in the new United States of America, you are incrediblyexcited to become an active member of society and contribute to the

new government. Except!

 you don't really understand this newsystem, of rule in your young country. So, like any good citizen, youdecide to find out more. Download “The Articles of Confederation” iniBooks or PDF format and use the following as a reading guide as youare exposed to the first American form of government!

!  You live under a confederation, so define it here:

!  See that term “social contract” You have heard that before, haven’t you? Think about where that phrasehas been used ! 

!  Check out the diagrams of the three forms of state governments. You won't have to memorize those,since you will probably live in only one state in your lifetime in the 1700s. However, make sure you noticethat each has three branches ! what is the purpose of each branch?

legislative - executive - judicial-

!  This new national government seems to be weak ! what are some of the reasons for this decision? Doyou support this decision, as a citizen of the young country?

!  You just found out that each state had only one vote in Congress (the group that makes national laws).Why? Do you think that could cause any problems?

!  Using short phrases, write down the different powers that the national government has under the Articles in the space below. (In other words, what can the government do?)

!  Whoa! There are people moving to the West – how splendid! In general, what do each of these two lawdo to and for the Western lands?

Land Ordinance –

Northwest Ordinance –

!  Got any questions so far, citizen of the young United States? You have heard that the best way to learn isto ask questions ! 

8/11/2019 The First American Government Guide

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/the-first-american-government-guide 2/2

!   YIKES! You probably didn’t know all of the weaknesses of this new national government – and thereare a ton! Below, list the weaknesses and problems of the national and the government - an example isprovided.

•  In the national government, it is difficult to make decisions because of committees - Problems can’t besolved in a timely manner

!  You have heard about a couple of important meetings – one at Mount Vernon and one in Annapolis.What’s the story with these meetings?

!  OHMYGOSH! There is rebellion in Massachusetts! What will impact will this crazy Daniel Shays and hisrebellion have in the young country?

!  Double check, young citizen do you now understand the answer to this essential question – “Why wasthere a need for a new government in 1787?”

!  Bring citizen Taft $1,000,000 for a new souped-up mini van.

!  Any questions now?