Chapter 2 Flashcards
(25 cards)
What term describes the perception of colonists about their identity before the American Revolution?
More - British citizens in the New World
Many colonists initially saw themselves as British subjects rather than as Americans.
When was the first permanent colony established in the New World?
1620 at Plymouth, Massachusetts
This marked the beginning of permanent European settlement in New England.
What document was created by the Pilgrims to establish self-governance?
Mayflower Compact
This was an early form of social contract among the settlers.
What were the ‘Fundamental Orders of Connecticut’?
First written constitution in America
Established a framework for government in the Connecticut colony.
By what year did all thirteen colonies have their own constitutions?
By 1732
This development was significant in the evolution of colonial governance.
What major war influenced colonial relations with Britain in the 1760s?
The French-Indian War (1754-1763)
This conflict had lasting economic and political effects on the colonies.
What was a significant consequence of Britain winning the French-Indian War?
Depletes Treasury
The war’s financial burden led Britain to impose taxes on the colonies.
What justification did Britain provide for imposing new Acts on the colonies?
We did it for you guys!
Britain claimed that the colonies were beneficiaries of the new laws.
Name three major Acts imposed by Britain on the colonies.
- Sugar Act 1764
- Stamp Act 1765
- Quartering Act 1765
These Acts triggered significant colonial resistance.
What event was a reaction to the Tea Act of 1773?
Boston Tea Party
This was a protest against the monopoly granted to the British East India Company.
What were the Coercive Acts of 1774 also known as?
Intolerable Acts
These were punitive measures taken against Massachusetts following the Boston Tea Party.
What was the purpose of the First Continental Congress in 1774?
Send petition to King to express grievances
This was an early attempt at colonial unity and resistance.
What document did the Second Continental Congress adopt in 1776?
The Declaration of Independence
This document formally declared the colonies’ separation from Britain.
What are the unalienable Rights mentioned in the Declaration of Independence?
- Life
- Liberty
- Pursuit of Happiness
These rights are central to the American ethos and justification for independence.
What was the first governing document of the United States?
The Articles of Confederation
This document established a weak central government following independence.
What was a significant problem with the Articles of Confederation?
No national executive
This lack of a strong executive branch led to governance issues.
What event highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation in 1786?
Shay’s Rebellion
This armed uprising against economic injustices demonstrated the need for a stronger government.
What was the purpose of the Philadelphia Convention in 1787?
To revise the Articles of Confederation
It ultimately led to the creation of a new Constitution.
What was the Connecticut Compromise also known as?
The Great Compromise
This compromise resolved disputes over representation in Congress.
What was the significance of the 3/5’s Compromise?
Determined how slaves would be counted for representation
It was a contentious issue reflecting the complexities of slavery in the new nation.
What are the key features of the Constitution rolled out on September 17, 1787?
- Bicameral legislature
- Separation of Powers
- Federalism
- Checks and balances
- Electoral College
- Bill of Rights
These features were designed to prevent tyranny and ensure a balanced government.
What are the seven Articles of the Constitution?
- The Legislature
- The Executive
- The Judiciary
- National Unity and Power
- Amending the Constitution
- National Supremacy
- Ratification of the Constitution
Each article addresses a fundamental aspect of governance.
Who were the Federalists?
Supported The Constitution and wanted a stronger central government
They wrote the ‘Federalist Papers’ to argue for ratification.
Who were the Anti-Federalists?
Opposed The Constitution and defended states’ rights
They demanded a Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties.
