The Birth of a Nation: Understanding the US Constitution

The Birth of a Nation: Understanding the US Constitution

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. For multiple choice questions, circle the letter corresponding to the correct answer. For fill-in-the-blank questions, complete the sentence with the appropriate word or phrase. For short answer questions, provide a concise and well-reasoned response.

1. Which document served as the first constitution of the United States?

2. The Constitutional Convention of 1787 took place in which city?

3. The Great Compromise established a   legislature, with representation in one house based on population and equal representation in the other.

4. The system of   and balances was designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

5. The first ten amendments to the Constitution are known as the  .

6. The Articles of Confederation created a strong central government.

7. The Three-Fifths Compromise addressed the issue of how enslaved people would be counted for representation and taxation.

8. What were two major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation that led to the Constitutional Convention?

9. Explain the primary difference between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan during the Constitutional Convention.

Above is an image of the U.S. Constitution, page 1. The Constitution established the framework for the United States government and guarantees the rights of its citizens. It is the supreme law of the land.