Lecture Notes: The Articles of Confederation

Introduction

• Presenter: Heimler's History
• Topic: Articles of Confederation, a foundational document for AP Government.

Overview of the Articles of Confederation

• First Constitution of the United States post-independence from Britain.
• Historians debate if it should be termed a constitution or a treaty.
• Formed a government where none existed after independence.

Definition and Structure

• Confederation: A government form where several powers unite to form a central power.
• Power Distribution: Most power was with the states, not the federal government.
  • Opening paragraph lists states, emphasizing state power.

Key Provision: Article 2

• State Sovereignty: "Each state retains its sovereignty, freedom, and independence."
• Power Retention: Powers not explicitly given to Congress remain with the states.

Federal Government Provisions

Article 5

• Single Branch: Only a legislative branch.
• No President or Federal Court.
• Equal Representation: Each state has one vote in Congress, regardless of size.

Need for Central Government

• International Relations: Central government needed for foreign diplomacy.
• Article 6 Restrictions:
  • States cannot engage in foreign embassies or treaties without Congress.
  • Central government cannot raise a national army.
  • State Militias: States must maintain militias.

Powers of Congress

Article 9

• Limited Powers:
  • Final arbiter in interstate disputes.
  • Fixing standards (weights, measures) and appointing committees.
• Major Decisions: Requires approval of nine states (super majority).

Limitations and Amendments

Article 13

• Amendment Difficulty:
  • Requires unanimous agreement of all states (13/13) to amend.

Achievements and Flaws

• Achievements:
  • Established a central government.
  • Avoided a tyrannical government by limiting central power.
• Flaws: Many limitations led to the drafting of a new constitution in 1787 at the Constitutional Convention.

Conclusion

• Further Study: Playlist of foundational documents.
• Additional Resources: Review packet for class success.

Note: These are key points discussed in the lecture on the Articles of Confederation, providing a high-level overview of its structure, provisions, and impact.