First form of government in the United States
Key Points:
- • Power went to the states
- • Each state had equal votes
- • 9 of 13 states had to approve for Congress to act
- • Created a "firm friendship" between the states
Study Sections
📖 Study Sections
Explore each major topic in detail. Click on any section to expand and read the key points.
⚖️ Government Plans Comparison
| Plan | Proposed By | Key Features | Favored |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Plan | Edmund Randolph & James Madison | Strong national government, bicameral legislature based on population | Large states |
| New Jersey Plan | William Paterson | One-house legislature, weak executive, equal state representation | Small states |
| Great Compromise | Roger Sherman | Bicameral: House by population, Senate equal representation | All states |
🏛️ Three Branches of Government
Legislative Branch
Congress (House & Senate)
- • Collect taxes
- • Regulate trade
- • Create currency
- • Declare war
Executive Branch
President
- • Carries out laws
- • Commander in Chief
- • Manages foreign relations
- • Four-year term
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court
- • Hears Constitution cases
- • Reviews laws
- • Resolves state disputes
- • Checks other branches