George Washington and the Making of the Constitution
This page provides resources on A More Perfect Union, a 21 minute film that covers the Articles of Confederation, the Constitutional Convention, and the ratification process. Use these resources to view the film, learn more about the journey towards our modern-day government, and find incredible source materials!
Constitution Quizzes
Watch the video A More Perfect Union, then test your knowledge of the Constitution.
Interactive Map
Use this link to access an interactive map showing the Constitution ratification process.
Constitutional Convention Statistics
| President of the Convention: | George Washington |
| Number of delegates who attended the convention: | 55 |
| Number of delegates who signed the Constitution: | 39 |
| End: | September 17, 1789 |
The Need for Change
The Articles of Confederation were clearly not working - debts were not being paid, people were starting to rebel, and there was no strong, central government. What was the nation going to do?
Compromise and Ratification
Fifty-five delegates met in secret in Philadelphia to discuss a new governing system. Would they be able to compromise on their problems?
The Constitution
Explore the Constitution on your own with this interactive primary source.
Washington's Election
Once the Constitution was ratified, it became clear that the new government needed to elect its first president. But who would rise to the occasion?
Why is the Constitution important today?
Maya Hawke, Harrison Ford, and others explain the significance of our government.
Primary Sources
Explore the primary sources that support A More Perfect Union
Secondary Sources
Explore the Secondary Sources that support A More Perfect Union
- Washington Resigns from the Military
- Shay's Rebellion
- The Constitutional Convention
- The American Economy
- The Articles of Confederation
- The Annapolis Convention
- The Constitutional Convention
- Key Players of the Convention
- Key Issues of the Convention
- The Federalist Papers
- Ratification of the Constitution
- The Constitution
- The Bill of Rights
Teaching the Constitution
This helpful section includes vocabulary terms, inquiry questions, a graphic organizer, further reading, and much more. Click the link below to access wonderful resources for teachers!
Watch A More Perfect Union
Learn how George Washington successfully led the creation of a new form of government!
This project was funded through a grant approved by the Americana Corner Preserving America Grant Program
Full Length Films
Click the link to explore more videos at the Full Length Films page.
Link to Films