The United States Constitution

by Carol Espensen

The Articles of Confederation was the first attempt at establishing a national government inthe New World. It was not entirely successful, which is why the Constitution was established. But it did serve the nation for a decade. So, what are the Articles, what kind of government did they establish, and what was so wrong with them that they had to be replaced by the constitution?

• What were the Articles of Confederation?
• Why didn't they work?
• Who didn't attend the Constitutional Convention?
• What was the purpose of the Convention?
• What were the major differences between the Articles and the Constitution?
• In your own words, explain the following terms:

  • domestic tranquility
  • welfare
  • posterity
  • ordain

• Choose an amendment and explain how it still applies today.