A limitation refers to a restriction or constraint that hinders the effectiveness or capability of a system. In the context of the Articles of Confederation, limitations were significant weaknesses that prevented the government from functioning efficiently, leading to various challenges that ultimately necessitated a stronger federal framework.
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The Articles of Confederation created a government with no executive branch, limiting its ability to enforce laws and implement policies effectively.
Congress under the Articles could not levy taxes, relying instead on voluntary contributions from states, which often fell short and led to financial instability.
States had their own currencies and trade policies, causing economic disarray and difficulties in interstate commerce due to lack of uniformity.
The requirement for unanimous consent among states to amend the Articles made it nearly impossible to address any limitations or needed changes.
The limitations of the Articles ultimately led to calls for a Constitutional Convention in 1787, resulting in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
Review Questions
How did the limitations imposed by the Articles of Confederation affect its ability to govern effectively?
The limitations of the Articles of Confederation severely hampered the central government's ability to govern effectively. Without an executive branch, there was no one to enforce laws or policies, which meant that states could often ignore federal mandates. Additionally, Congress's inability to levy taxes resulted in a chronic lack of funds, preventing the government from meeting its obligations or responding to crises. This ultimately led to widespread dissatisfaction and calls for reform.
Evaluate how Shays' Rebellion demonstrated the limitations of the Articles of Confederation and spurred calls for change.
Shays' Rebellion was a critical event that highlighted the limitations of the Articles of Confederation. The uprising illustrated how the federal government could not quell civil unrest due to its lack of military power and financial resources. This failure prompted leaders to recognize that without a stronger central authority capable of maintaining order and addressing economic grievances, similar revolts could occur elsewhere. The rebellion served as a catalyst for discussions that ultimately led to the Constitutional Convention and the creation of a new governing framework.
Assess how the limitations inherent in the Articles of Confederation influenced the design of the U.S. Constitution.
The limitations inherent in the Articles of Confederation significantly influenced the design of the U.S. Constitution by emphasizing the need for a more balanced and functional government structure. The framers recognized that issues like lack of taxation power and ineffective governance needed addressing through a stronger federal system that included an executive branch and bicameral legislature. This shift aimed to create a government capable of enforcing laws, managing economic policies uniformly across states, and adapting over time through an amendable constitution. Ultimately, these lessons from past limitations shaped a more resilient and effective governing document.
The first governing document of the United States, ratified in 1781, which established a confederation of sovereign states with a weak central government.
A political system in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for both national and state governance.
An armed uprising in 1786-1787 led by Daniel Shays and other Massachusetts farmers protesting economic injustices and the lack of governmental response, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles.