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Articles of Confederation - Slides

Articles of Confederation - Slides

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

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The Articles of Confederation was the first written constitution of the United States. Written in 1777 and stemming from wartime urgency, its progress was slowed by fears of central authority and extensive land claims by states. It was not ratified until March 1, 1781. This stream compares the Articles of Confederation to a basketball team. Then, each of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation are addressed in detailed. Lastly, this stream looks at the Land Ordinance of 1785 and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787. Enjoy!