AMH 2010 Study Guide - Final Guide: Whiskey Rebellion, Northwest Ordinance, Potomac River
Document Summary
Articles of confederation the articles of confederation was the first written constitution of the united. Stemming from wartime urgency, its progress was slowed by fears of central authority and extensive land claims by states before was it was ratified on march 1, 1781. Under these articles, the states remained sovereign and independent, with congress serving as the last resort on appeal of disputes. Congress was also given the authority to make treaties and alliances, maintain armed forces and coin money. However, the central government lacked the ability to levy taxes and regulate commerce, issues that led to the constitutional convention in 1787 for the creation of new federal laws. Land ordinances land ordinance of 1784: called for the west to be divided into separate states. His original draft of the ordinance contained five important articles: The new states shall remain forever a part of the united states of america.
