Applying the Constitution: The First Congress Begins Its Work
In Grade 8 US history, students learn about the First Congress of 1789 and how it began putting the new Constitution into practice. After a slow start getting enough members to form a quorum, Congress established distinct working styles for the House and Senate and began creating the structure of the new government. This is covered in History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 3: Forming a New Nation.
Key Concepts
After the Constitution was ratified, the new government had a slow start. In 1789, it took weeks for enough members of Congress to arrive in New York City to form a quorum , the minimum number of people needed to hold a vote and pass laws.
Once assembled, the two houses of Congress developed different styles. The House of Representatives met in public, allowing it to take the lead on important issues like creating a national bank and drafting the Bill of Rights . The Senate met privately, acting as a more cautious body that reviewed the House's proposals.
Common Questions
What did the First Congress of 1789 accomplish?
The First Congress established key laws and structures for the new government under the Constitution, including creating the first executive departments and passing the Bill of Rights.
What is a quorum and why was it needed for the First Congress?
A quorum is the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business and vote. In 1789, Congress had to wait weeks for enough members to arrive before it could begin passing laws.
How were the House of Representatives and Senate different in the First Congress?
The House met in public, allowing it to move more quickly and take the lead on many issues. The Senate held more private deliberations and tended to move more slowly and carefully.
Which textbook covers the First Congress in Grade 8 history?
History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 3: Forming a New Nation, covers how the First Congress applied the Constitution.
Why is the First Congress important in US history?
The First Congress set the precedents for how the American government would function. It created key institutions and passed the Bill of Rights, shaping the nation's political foundation.