Articels of Conferation
The Articles of Confederation were created by the government as their constitution. The Articles were weak because the colonists were so upset with king George and his acts, that the colonists didn't want to do the same mistakes.
Strengths of the Articles of Confederation
With the the Articles of Confederation America was able to govern their nation during the Revolution war. America also negotiated the Treaty of Paris of 1783. They settled the land ordinance of 1785, and the Northwest Ordinance of 1785.
Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation lacked the power to enforce laws and the power to levy taxes. The Articles also lacked the power to control the trade among states, and required all 13 states to vote to make changes to the Articles of Confederation.
The Northwest Ordinance of 1787
The Northwest Ordinance allowed a territory with the population of 60,000 or more to create a constitution and apply for statehood. Some strengths of the Northwest Ordinance were that all settlers would have the same rights and privileges as other citizens, slavery is banned in the territory, and when a territory has 5,000 free adult males it can elect a legislature.
Shays' Rebellion
Congress was having a money shortage and farmers were not able to pay their taxes. The farmers who were unable to pay their taxes were thrown in prison. Daniel Shays led a rebellion in order to show everyone what the government has become. At the end of his rebellion many Americans realized the government was weak, which lead to congress calling for a convention. The convention then lead to the Great Compromise of 1787