The document summarizes key events and aspects of early American government under the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution. It notes that the Articles of Confederation established a weak federal government with limited powers over states, which led to weaknesses like Shays' Rebellion. This prompted calls for a stronger central government and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution at the 1787 convention, establishing three branches of government with checks and balances. The new Constitution granted Congress and the Presidency powers over the military, taxation, and courts that were lacking under the Articles of Confederation.