The American Revolution (): A-level OCR

The American Revolution (): A-level OCR What were the challenges faced by the former colonies after independence? - CORRECT ANSWER-1. issue of debt 2. divisions 3. articles of confederation 4. desire for liberty 5. differences between the North and the South 6. Expansion 7. Uncertainty Why was debt an issue during early independence? - CORRECT ANSWER-Issue of debt - congress had raised money by borrowing from abroad (especially France and the Netherlands). Thew new republic faced the burden of debt and because of the economic disruptions brought by war, there were substantial debts incurred by many farmers and small producers. The republic was divided between those who were wealthy enough to lend money to Congress and individuals and those that owed the money. Debtors argued for more money to be printed and prices to rise so that their debts would be eliminated but this ultimately led to inflation. Why was divisions an issue during early independence? - CORRECT ANSWER-Divisions - huge divisions within the colonies: Loyalists were divided from Patriots and large numbers fled to British Canada to avoid persecution. Divisions between rich and poor (i.e. virtual civil war in South Carolina between property owners and backcountry people loyal to Britain) and some divided between white Americans and Native Americans. Weak government faced with elements of civil war and maintaining independence. Why were the Articles of Confederation an issue during early independence? - CORRECT ANSWER Articles of Confederation - 1777 (1781 - ratified): first written constitution of US, demands of wars had led to some overall authority being exerted by Congress. National army, national commander and paper money. However, there were no national taxes, no uniform law, no war cabinet and an unanimous vote