Crash Course U.S. History: The United States Constitution

Introduction

• Presenter: John Green
• Topic: The United States Constitution
• Objective: Explore how American government became influential

The Articles of Confederation

• Initial government setup by the Continental Congress
• Described as weak; lasted only 10 years
• Consisted of one-house body of delegates, each state one vote
• No president, no judiciary
• Required 9 out of 13 votes for decisions
• Limited powers: declare war, conduct foreign affairs, make treaties, coin money
• Could not collect taxes; relied on state contributions

Achievements under the Articles

• Won the Revolutionary War
• Developed rules for managing land (Ohio)

Failures and Criticism

• Could not collect taxes
• Caused international trade issues
• Shays’ Rebellion highlighted weaknesses

Constitutional Convention

• Held in Philadelphia, 1787
• Aim: Revise the Articles of Confederation
• Result: Creation of a new Constitution

Key Features of the Constitution

• Separation of powers: executive, legislative, and judiciary
• Republican form of government
• Electoral College system for Presidency
• Federalism: Authority divided between national and state governments

Major Compromises

• Great Compromise: Two-house legislature (House of Representatives and Senate)
• 3/5ths Compromise: Counting slaves as 3/5ths for representation
• Fugitive slave clause included

Ratification Process

• Required approval from 9 out of 13 states
• Federalist Papers by Hamilton, Madison, Jay supported ratification

Opposition

• Anti-Federalists: Feared strong government dominated by the wealthy
• Preferred state governments for better rights protection

Legacy and Impact

• The Constitution remains a vital, living document
• Continues to influence political ideology and debates on government's size

Conclusion

• Constitution was only a starting point for American government
• Details and interpretations developed through political processes and historical events

Notable Points

• Second Amendment intended for people to arm against a standing army
• Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists debates on government scope and power