The Articles Organize New Territories
The Articles Organize New Territories is a Grade 5 history skill from California myWorld Interactive, Chapter 6: A New Nation. Students learn how the Articles of Confederation government created the Land Ordinance of 1785 for surveying and selling western land, and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 which established a process for territories to become states, banned slavery in the Northwest Territory, and guaranteed religious freedom.
Key Concepts
Even with its weaknesses, the government under the Articles created a plan for westward expansion. The Land Ordinance of 1785 established a system for surveying and selling land to settlers. This law also set aside a part of each township for public schools.
The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 was an even more important law. It created a clear process for territories to become new states. This ordinance banned slavery in the Northwest Territory and guaranteed religious freedom. However, while it promised fair treatment for American Indians, it also created a system for taking their lands.
Common Questions
What was the Land Ordinance of 1785?
The Land Ordinance of 1785 established a system for surveying and selling western land to settlers. It also set aside part of each township for public schools.
What was the Northwest Ordinance of 1787?
The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 created a clear process for territories to become new states. It banned slavery in the Northwest Territory and guaranteed religious freedom.
Why were the Land Ordinance and Northwest Ordinance important achievements?
These laws showed that the Articles of Confederation government, despite its weaknesses, could create an organized system for westward expansion and the growth of new states from territories.
What textbook covers the Articles and territorial organization for Grade 5?
This topic is covered in California myWorld Interactive, Grade 5, Chapter 6: A New Nation.