Final answer:
After the American Revolution, the former colonies established independent states with their own republican governments made up of a legislature, executive, and judiciary. These state governments, which varied in structure, aimed to balance the people's freedoms with checks against tyranny and mob rule, serving as precursors to the national government formed under the Articles of Confederation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The First Form of Government After the American Revolution
The first form of government after the American Revolution was a set of republican governments established by each of the former colonies, now independent states. Following the advice of the Continental Congress in 1776, the states began to draft their constitutions, leading to the formation of independent state governments. These governments typically consisted of a legislature, an executive, and a judiciary, and many placed their trust in a representative assembly with extensive legislative power. The governor's role was more administrative than legislative to avoid any single point of power becoming too strong. This arrangement was reflective of the revolutionary leaders' desire to create balanced governments that prevented tyranny from either the state or the populace.
These state governments varied by region, but there was a consensus on the importance of forming republican governments rooted in 'the consent of the governed.' To further secure individual liberties from potential state abuse, the separation of powers was emphasized, checks and balances were incorporated, and efforts were made to ensure equal representation within legislative bodies. However, there were debates regarding the legislative structure and voter qualifications—issues that would later also influence the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
The state governments served as a proving ground for democratic principles before the adoption of the Articles of Confederation in 1781, which became the first national government system of the newly independent United States. The Articles of Confederation existed until 1789 when they were replaced by the current U.S. Constitution after being deemed insufficient for managing the growing nation effectively.