Q1
The national government was very weak and lacked sufficient authority over the states. It did not have a way to compel the states to make payments when they fell due. The congress also did not have control over commercial activities in all states. Each state set its own rules and imposed its own duties and levies; this led to the deterioration of the economy. There were also widespread stability fears as the national government did not have an army and could only request for soldiers from the states. Controlling the states was also difficulty because there was no national executive or a judiciary. Due to these reasons, many Americans favored the revision of the articles; however, some feared that the congress would gain so much power and the states would completely lose their autonomy.
Q2
Most members believed that a regular army was required, so as to protect the country from internal and external aggression or threats. Most members also believed that the national government could be trusted with the preservation of public tranquility. They also agreed that the national government should have powers to curb wars and to take legal action on war offenders. The issues of security and the army were agreed upon by the delegates fairly quickly.
Some members who were against the ratification process cited fears that the national government would have too much power leaving the states with very little. They also argued that the amendment of the constitution was illegal as it required the consent of all states. They also complained against the omission of the bill of rights. To resolve these differences, the bill of rights was included. Some of the states that opposed the process ratified the constitution after some time.
Q3
The ratification of the constitution required the endorsement by nine states of the thirteen states that were supposed to ratify it. For the purpose of the establishment of the new constitution, ratification by nine states were sufficient nine
Those opposed to the process wanted a complete federal setting with substantial autonomy from the central government. They felt that a centralized government was not capable of doing enough to protect the rights of individuals. Those supporting the constitution held the view that a stronger national government would work to enhance the nations well being.
Q4
George Washington established a strong central national government that has been viewed as a benchmark for latter presidents. Although there were no provisions in the constitutions for the establishment of a cabinet, he set up one. He was seen as having set a standard for etiquette to be followed by other presidents.
The whiskey rebellion was one of the major challenges faced under President George Washington. The farmers attacked federal tax collectors and used violence against them to intimidate so as to stop them from collecting taxes. The president sent negotiators to the problem areas to resolve the situation; he also sent militias to fight off any more violent resistance.
The jay treaty was seen as having terms that did not favor America; President Washington, however, persuaded people and the senate to accept it. He assured them that there was no need of more conflict with the Britons as it would not be in the best interest of Americans.
Q5
The American constitution did not have provisions for political parties. The leaders at the time had divided views on the constitution; some favored a strong central government and did not support a strict interpretation of the constitution. The other group supported opposing views, and this led to the emergence of two political groupings; the federalists and the democratic republicans. Parties were not provided for as they were seen as having the potential to cause divisions among people. However, they were embraced as people appreciated the fact that there was more than one way of serving the Americans. The potential of peaceful transitions also made people embrace the political parties.
Works Cited
Carnes, Mark C, and John A. Garraty. The American Nation: A History of the United States. Boston: Prentice Hall, 2012. Print.
