The Confederation Congress, which operated under the Articles of Confederation from 1781 to 1789, passed several important laws during its existence. Two significant ones were:
1. The Northwest Ordinance of 1787:
- Significance: This ordinance established a system for the orderly expansion of the United States into the Northwest Territory (the area that would become the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin). It outlined a process for surveying, selling, and governing new territories. Importantly, it prohibited slavery in the Northwest Territory, contributing to the expansion of free states in the new territories.
2. The Land Ordinance of 1785:
- Significance: This ordinance provided for the systematic survey and sale of public lands in the western territories of the United States. It introduced the rectangular survey system, which divided land into townships, sections, and quarter-sections, making land ownership and sales more organized and accessible. The revenue generated from the sale of these lands was intended to help pay off the national debt incurred during the Revolutionary War.
These laws were significant because they laid the groundwork for westward expansion, land distribution, and governance of new territories, setting important precedents for the development of the United States as it expanded beyond the original 13 colonies. The Northwest Ordinance, in particular, had a lasting impact by prohibiting slavery in newly admitted states, reflecting the ongoing debate over slavery in the early years of the nation. Hope this helps you have a great day