ON THIS DAY IN UNITED STATES HISTORY

November 15, 1777

The Continental Congress Approves
the Articles of Confederation

On this day in 1777, the Continental Congress approved the Articles of Confederation in York, Pennsylvania. The Articles of Confederation was the governing constitution of the original thirteen colonies.

The Articles gave all power to the states except for certain specific powers granted to the central government, including the power to make war, negotiate diplomatic agreements and resolve issues involving the western territories.

One problem with the Articles is that it did not take into consideration the population of the states. Each state had one vote, regardless of size. Another problem was that many favored a stronger central government. The articles were eventually replaced by the U.S. Constitution.

November 15, 1864

Union General William T. Sherman Begins His March to the Sea

On this day in 1864, Union General William T. Sherman and his troops left the recently captured Atlanta and headed for Savannah. Sherman's men reached the outskirts of Savannah on December 10, but along the way they inflicted serious damage to the south both financially and psychologically. This was a significant factor in bringing about the surrender of the South six months later.