The Complexities of the Articles of Confederation

Discover how the flaws of the Articles of Confederation led to the creation of the United States Constitution. Students learn about the importance of Articles of Confederation, which, while flawed, formed America’s first central government. Through reading foundational primary source documents, viewing media clips, and engaging in a thought-provoking simulation that brings to life the challenges of the early republic, students develop a deeper understanding of the early foundations of American government.

About the Author:
David Kendrick is in his 24th year of teaching, his fourth at Loganville High School in Loganville, Georgia. Currently, he teaches AP human geography, advanced American government and advanced U.S. history. He has a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Valdosta State University, a Masters of Education in social studies education and an Education Specialist in reading, both from the University of Georgia. He serves on the board of trustees for the Georgia Council for the Social Studies as a past president and its historian. In addition, Mr. Kendrick is an elected member of the National Council for the Social Studies’s board of directors and recently was elected vice-president of NCSS for a term and will assume the office of president of NCSS in 2027.