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The Nation’s First Governments

The Nation’s First Governments. Chp2.3. Early State Constitutions. Before the D of I was signed, Americans began preparing state constitutions to replace colonial charters They also sought to create a central government that would unify and strengthen the 13 states

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The Nation’s First Governments

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  1. The Nation’s First Governments Chp2.3

  2. Early State Constitutions • Before the D of I was signed, Americans began preparing state constitutions to replace colonial charters • They also sought to create a central government that would unify and strengthen the 13 states • In January of 1776 New Hampshire became the 1st state and created a constitution, a written plan for government.

  3. Other States follow suit… • Each state had a legislature to create laws • Bicameral organization • Governor • Judges and courts to interpret laws • Most had bill of rights

  4. Massachusetts Constitution • Written in 1780 and still in effect today • Unlike other states, Massachusetts distributed power more evenly among the legislature, the governor, and courts (separation of power) • Court and governor could check power of legislature • It was created by a group of delegates elected for this purpose and approved by state citizens • Served as important model for US constitution

  5. Articles of Confederation • To become united under a central authority the Second Continental Congress created the Articles of Confederation in 1777 • The A of C create a union of states bound by a single purpose • Set up 1-house legislature and gave each state one vote • This congress had control of army and authority to deal with foreign affairs

  6. Weaknesses of A of C • No power to collect taxes…could ask but not demand • No power to regulate trade • No power to enforce its laws • Strict voting requirements made it difficult to accomplish anything • No national court • No central authority figure

  7. Despite a Weak National Government • America wins Revolutionary war and Britain formally recognizes their independence in 1783 in the treaty of Paris • America faced serious financial troubles because war is costly. • They borrowed money that would take years to repay and could not collect taxes • The states faced similar problems and were forced to burden citizens and hurt trade by taxing it heavily

  8. Public Insecurity • Feared for their safety and security • During 1786 and 1787 riots broke out • Daniel Shays and Shays rebellion- felt into debt in Massachusetts and courts threatened to take his farm. Led uprising of 1200 on federal arsenal • Quickly stopped but was a wake up call • A stronger federal government was needed and a constitutional convention was call in 1787

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