What & When: In 1789 the U.S. Constitution replaced the Articles of Confederation and created a stronger federal government. It established the three branches of government, outlined how to add changes to the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights explained the rights of the people. Cause: The Articles of Confederation had not proven strong enough for a growing country like the U.S. who needed a government with more central power to be able to enforce its laws. Effect: It was not easy to get delegates to agree on the design of the new government in the planning process that took place during the Constitutional Convention. Significance: The Constitution that was created during this time has endured and is still the highest law in the land today.
