05: Revolution, Constitution, and the Early Republic Free Online FlashCards

When did fighting begin at Lexington and Concord?

Fighting began at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, on April 19, 1775.

What political principle did the Declaration of Independence assert?

The Declaration argued that governments exist to secure natural rights and that people may alter or abolish governments that persistently violate those rights.

Why was Saratoga important to the American Revolution?

The American victory at Saratoga in October 1777 helped persuade France to recognize the United States and enter the war in 1778.

Which agreement formally recognized American independence?

The Treaty of Paris, signed on September 3, 1783, formally recognized American independence.

What governing structure did the Articles of Confederation create?

The Articles created a firm league of friendship among sovereign states. Each state retained sovereignty and had one vote in Congress.

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

Congress could not directly tax individuals, effectively regulate commerce, enforce decisions through an independent executive, or compel states to meet financial obligations.

What did the Northwest Ordinance establish?

The Northwest Ordinance established a process for territorial government and eventual statehood, and prohibited slavery north of the Ohio River.

What did the Great Compromise decide?

The Great Compromise created a bicameral Congress: House representation based on population and two senators for each state.

How did the Three-Fifths Compromise affect representation?

The Three-Fifths Compromise counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation and direct taxation, increasing slaveholding states’ political power.

What is federalism?

Federalism divides authority between a national government and state governments.

What did Federalists generally support?

Federalists favored stronger national authority, national taxation, commercial regulation, and an energetic executive.

What did Anti-Federalists fear about the Constitution?

Anti-Federalists feared centralized authority and criticized presidential power, life-tenured judges, a standing army, and the absence of a bill of rights.