American History Homework Three Answers - Model

1. Identify two weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

2. Identify the first three Articles of the Constitution, and what each Article establishes.

3. Explain what you like most about George Washington.

4. Describe the most important invention of the 1790s, and its political impact.

5. Explain the political view expressed by this week's cartoon, and which side of what issue the cartoonist likely represents.

I believe it describes the ratification of the Constitution by the colonies. At the time of this cartoon, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut had already ratified the Constitution. Massachusetts was on the verge of ratifying so I believe the hand could possibly be God, since it is reaching from the clouds or just a way of showing that Massachusetts was nearly joining the rank of those who ratified already. Massachusetts ratified the United States Constitution on February 6, 1788, by a vote of 187 to 168. A later cartoon, publicized 10 days later, depicts Massachusetts standing with the rest of the States. The cartoonist was probably a Federalist because he depicts a hand, possibly Gods, holding the states together. (Bethany S.)

The pillars in the cartoon represent states supporting the Federal government. the hand in the cloud is the Hand of God saving Massachusetts during Shay's Rebellion. The cartoonist, Ben Russell, was a federalist, favoring power to the federal government rather than States retaining power. Because the Rebellion took place under the Confederation, Russell held that it showed the need for a strong Constitution to stop insurrections like this quickly. Under the Articles, things were clearly getting out of hand. (Steven M.)

6. Describe two significant achievements of The Northwest Ordinance.

7. Describe what you think was most significant about John Adams' presidency.

Honors Questions

H1. Explain how George Washington's Farewell Address is relevant today.

H2. Do you think the Anti-Federalists had some good points? Explain.

H3. State your view on any discussion topic or mystery concerning the period 1780-1800.

H4. Contrast the handling of Shays' Rebellion with the handling of the Whiskey Rebellion, and whether you think a president is necessary.

H5. Describe the response of Jefferson and Madison to the Alien & Sedition Acts. Do you agree with their approach?