Established

Definition

In the context of the Articles of Confederation, 'established' refers to the creation and formalization of a governing framework intended to unify the newly independent states under a central authority. The term captures the challenges faced in forming a stable national government, as the Articles aimed to establish cooperation among states while respecting their sovereignty. However, this establishment was fraught with limitations that ultimately hindered effective governance and highlighted the need for a stronger federal system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Established' reflects the founding intentions behind the Articles of Confederation, aiming for unity without sacrificing state autonomy.
2. The Articles were established in 1781 and were America's first attempt at a national government after independence.
3. The weaknesses of the established framework led to issues such as lack of tax revenue and difficulties in commerce regulation.
4. In 1787, the limitations of the established Articles prompted the Constitutional Convention, leading to the creation of a new constitution.
5. The phrase 'established government' often evokes discussions about how states struggled to cooperate effectively under the Articles.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the Articles of Confederation reflect the priorities of the newly independent states?
  • The establishment of the Articles of Confederation demonstrated the newly independent states' strong desire for autonomy and protection from a centralized power similar to British rule. They prioritized state sovereignty over a powerful national government, which resulted in a loose confederation where each state retained significant independence. This arrangement was meant to promote cooperation among states while ensuring that no single entity could dominate, but it ultimately led to ineffective governance due to conflicting interests.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the established governing framework under the Articles of Confederation in addressing economic challenges faced by the new nation.
  • The established framework under the Articles of Confederation was largely ineffective in addressing economic challenges, as it lacked the power to impose taxes or regulate interstate commerce. This created financial instability, with states often competing against each other for trade advantages and struggling with debt. The inability to raise revenue or maintain a unified economic policy highlighted significant weaknesses in the established government, which contributed to growing discontent and calls for reform.
• Assess how the challenges faced by an established government under the Articles of Confederation influenced the eventual adoption of the U.S. Constitution.
  • The challenges experienced by an established government under the Articles of Confederation, such as economic strife, interstate disputes, and a lack of centralized authority, played a crucial role in influencing the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. The inadequacies revealed during this period prompted leaders like James Madison and Alexander Hamilton to advocate for a stronger federal system capable of addressing national concerns. This culminated in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where a new framework was established that balanced power between state and federal authorities, directly addressing issues that arose under the Articles.

Related terms

Confederation: A union of sovereign states, where each state retains its independence and authority while delegating certain powers to a central government.

Sovereignty: The authority of a state to govern itself or another state, emphasizing independence and self-rule.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for a balance of power.