Chapter 6
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107
ReviewQuestions
1. What was our nation’s first plan for government called?
2. Name at least three of its problems.
3. Whywas theConstitutional Convention held inMay 1787?
4. How did Pennsylvanians help towrite the newConstitution?
5. How didRoger Sherman help to solve a problem?
6. What is a change to our Constitution called?
7. What is theBill of Rights?
8. How is theBill of Rights connected to our Constitution?
9. Inwhat year was theConstitutional Convention held?
10. Inwhat year was theBill of Rights approved?
In 1789, the First Congress of the United
States suggested a list of 12 ideas, or
amendments, to the Constitution. These
amendments dealt with the rights and
freedoms of the people. They were promises
offered by the United States government.
Aftermuch discussion, Congress approved 10
of the amendments. However, these ideas
had to be approved by nine out of 13 states.
In 1791, the first ten amendments to our
Constitutionwere approved. Theywere called
the
Bill of Rights
. These amendments
granted people such freedoms as religion and
speech. In over two hundred years, only 17
more amendments have been added to our
Constitution.
In 1789, George Washington was elected
our first president. New York City was chosen
as our nation’s capital. One year later, our
nation’s capital was moved to Philadelphia.
The city remained the capital for 10 years.
Then,
Washington, D.C.,
was chosen as the
new place for our nation’s government.
CRITICAL
THINKING
QUESTION
Identify an issue in today’sworld that you think shouldbecome
an amendment to our Constitution. Write your idea. Provide
reasons why you think it should be part of our national law.
