Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Worksheet Description

This worksheet centers on a pivotal U.S. document that laid the foundation for the governance and admission of new states into the Union. It provides students with a series of questions designed to explore various aspects of the ordinance, ranging from its primary intent to its stance on issues like slavery. Additionally, the worksheet delves into the ordinance’s broader implications, particularly its influence on subsequent civil liberties documents and its long-term impact on the country’s development. The inclusion of a graphic, presumably a covered wagon, underscores the theme of westward expansion and the settling of the Northwest Territory.

The primary goal of this worksheet is to guide students in understanding the significance and nuances of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 within the broader context of U.S. history. By asking about its purpose, students can grasp the immediate goals of the ordinance in shaping the nation’s growth. The questions regarding civil liberties and rights emphasized in the document encourage students to reflect on foundational principles of U.S. governance. Furthermore, by examining the ordinance’s position on slavery and its lasting impact, students are prompted to consider both the progressive and contentious aspects of the nation’s early legal framework, fostering a holistic view of its historical evolution.