Ratification of the U.S. Constitution Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What was a key concern of the antifederalists regarding the Constitution?

It would limit individual freedoms.

It would centralize power in a potent central government. (correct)

It would enhance the power of the states.

It would be difficult to amend.

Which state was the first to ratify the Constitution?

Pennsylvania

Massachusetts

Delaware (correct)

New Jersey

What was a characteristic of the federalists during the ratification debate?

They were wealthier and better organized than antifederalists. (correct)

They opposed a strong central government.

They were mostly from rural areas.

They favored strict interpretation of the Constitution.

Which figure was a prominent supporter of the federalists?

George Washington Signup and view all the answers

Which state ratified the Constitution with the closest vote in its convention?

Massachusetts Signup and view all the answers

What method did the framers use to seek approval of the Constitution?

By appealing to the general populace through conventions. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant effect of the divide in Congress during the submission of the Constitution?

It allowed for the document to be submitted without recommendations. Signup and view all the answers

What was a common fear among those opposed to the Constitution regarding its impact on debtors?

It would require them to pay debts at full value. Signup and view all the answers

What was the central concern of the delegates at the Convention regarding democracy?

It could create a government by 'democratick babblers'. Signup and view all the answers

Which change was introduced under the Federal Constitution compared to the Articles of Confederation regarding congressional voting?

Two votes in Senate for each state; representation by population in House. Signup and view all the answers

Under the Federal Constitution, what power was granted to Congress that was lacking under the Articles of Confederation?

The power to regulate commerce. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main objectives of the Federalist Papers?

To promote the ratification of the Constitution. Signup and view all the answers

How did the power of the executive branch change under the Federal Constitution compared to the Articles of Confederation?

The executive branch gained extensive powers. Signup and view all the answers

Which group was primarily opposed to the ratification of the Constitution?

Anti-Federalists. Signup and view all the answers

What significant legislation was passed in 1787 that outlined the process for admitting new states to the Union?

The Northwest Ordinance. Signup and view all the answers

What majority was required for Congress to pass important measures under the Articles of Confederation?

Nine states out of thirteen. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary concern of antifederalists regarding the new Constitution?

Absence of a bill of rights Signup and view all the answers

Which group was most likely to support the ratification of the Constitution?

Federalists from coastal areas Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Constitution did antifederalists describe as a 'gilded trap'?

The process of ratification Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main arguments used by federalists in support of the Constitution?

It would create a powerful central government. Signup and view all the answers

Which document was used by federalists to persuade states to ratify the Constitution?

The Federalist Papers Signup and view all the answers

What did antifederalists fear regarding the establishment of a standing army?

It could be used to oppress the states. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary stance of frontiersmen towards the Constitution?

Suspicion and opposition to central authority Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Part Two: Building the New Nation (1776-1860)

By 1783, Americans had won their freedom, but now faced the task of nation-building.
They had a vast, fertile land and a legacy of self-rule from their colonial past.
However, there was no precedent for a republic on a national scale.
The Articles of Confederation, the initial national government, proved inadequate for nation-building.
The Constitution replaced the Articles, prompting debates over the balance of power between the federal government and the states, and the protection of individual rights.

Aftermath of the Revolution

Post-war economic struggles included inflation, financial hardship, and difficulty maintaining peace with foreign nations.
The growth of a new market economy, commercialization of agriculture, and the factory system emerged.
The expansion of the slave system, primarily due to cotton production, coincided with economic growth.

The Confederation and the Constitution (1776-1790)

The American Revolution was an evolution, rather than a complete overthrow, of existing political and social structures.
The changes included shifting social customs, political institutions, and ideas about society, government, and gender roles.
Significant numbers of Loyalists left the colonies, weakened aristocratic influence.
The exodus of loyalists opened the way for new Patriot elites to emerge.
The ideals of equality greatly influenced society.

Problems of a New Government

Economic turmoil post-revolution, including inflation, debt, and economic instability, became a concern.
The Articles of Confederation lacked a strong central government.
The inability of the government to regulate commerce prompted concerns and issues.
The lack of a uniform tax policy and unsuccessful efforts by Congress to collect taxes caused concerns regarding the national debt.

The Constitution Making in the States

In 1776, the Continental Congress instructed the colonies to draft new constitutions.
Most states adopted constitutions, mirroring the principles of republicanism and popular sovereignty.
These documents served as blueprints for the federal Constitution.
They exhibited common features such as establishing rights, defining government powers, and ensuring accountability.

Landmarks in Land Laws

The Land Ordinance of 1785 established procedures for surveying and selling land in the Old Northwest Territory.
It aimed to support the national debt, encourage settlement, and establish orderly land distribution.
The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 established a process for territories to become states and outlawed slavery in the region.

Troubled Foreign Relations

Britain initially refused to recognize American independence and maintained disputes related to war debts, trade, and western territory.
The United States faced conflict with Spain regarding navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

The Great Debate in the States

The ratification of the Constitution was fiercely contested, pitting Federalists against Antifederalists.
The absence of a Bill of Rights was a major issue for opponents of the Constitution.

A Conservative Triumph

Antifederalists were concerned about a strong central government.
Despite the concerns of the opposition, the Constitution was ultimately ratified.
The ratification of the Constitution was largely driven by supporters of a stronger federal government.
The ratification process was controversial, but it ultimately lead to the establishment of the new nation.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the key issues surrounding the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. From understanding the concerns of the Antifederalists to identifying the first state to ratify, this quiz covers essential historical milestones and debates. Perfect for anyone studying American history or the founding documents.