First and Final Draft

The first 'Articles of Confederation' was drafted by Benjamin Franklin. He believed that a form of government and structure would be beneficial for his country. - ex: civil rights, foreign affairs, etc.

The second (and final) version of the Articles was revised by John Dickinson, an outspoken loyalist. He made corrections to the AOC to make it more desirable to the colonies (by now states) and the Continental Congress. It passed in 1776- and led to the Constitution.

The Westward Conflicts

The AOC was a good idea to the leaders of the continental Congress, but not all of the state's delegates agreed- especially Maryland. They refused to ratify he Articles of Confederation because they had no promised Westward Settlements.

A Need for George Washington

By now, James Madison is serious about presenting the Virginia Plan to the colonies and delegates- but he needs a pull, something that grabs there attention and makes them want to come and sign. He decided that if George Washington, an influential Virginia delegate and veteran from the still ongoing Revolutionary War were to come,the states would be all over it and they wouldn't be able to say no. And they did just that. George Washington came and brought the colonies to band with him.