Final answer:
The Northwest Ordinance established a framework for territories in the Northwest to eventually achieve statehood, with provisions for self-governance and the banning of slavery as the population grew.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rules for the Northwest Territory set by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 established stages for transitioning from a territory to statehood. Initially, if a territory had fewer than 5,000 white adult males, it was governed by a governor and a three-judge panel appointed by the Confederation Congress. Once a territory reached 5,000 white male inhabitants, they could elect their own legislature. Additionally, settlers were assured the same rights as other citizens, including religious freedom and protection from slavery. When the population exceeded 60,000, the territory could draft a constitution, ban slavery, and apply for statehood. The Land Ordinance of 1785 standardized the process of land division into townships for sale which helped fund education and set the stage for future development.