After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

• Understand the competition among different colonial powers for control of America.
• Describe the events and political motivations that led to the colonies’ split with England.
• Explain what the Articles of Confederation did and what it failed to do.
• Identify the goals, divisions, and compromises that shaped the Constitution.
• Summarize the debate over ratification of the Constitution.
• Explain the role of everyday citizens in the founding of the United States.