Article of Confederation

Definition

The Articles of Confederation was the first written constitution of the United States, ratified in 1781, which established a loose confederation of states and a weak central government. This framework aimed to unite the thirteen colonies after gaining independence from Britain, but its weaknesses led to challenges in governance, economic stability, and interstate relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Articles of Confederation created a unicameral legislature where each state had one vote, regardless of its size or population.
2. There was no executive branch or national judiciary under the Articles, making it difficult to enforce laws or settle disputes.
3. The federal government could not impose taxes or regulate commerce, leading to financial instability and trade difficulties among states.
4. Amendments to the Articles required unanimous consent from all thirteen states, making it nearly impossible to address any needed changes.
5. The weaknesses of the Articles directly led to Shays' Rebellion and other uprisings, emphasizing the need for a stronger national government.

Review Questions

• How did the structure of government under the Articles of Confederation affect its ability to function effectively?
  • The structure established by the Articles of Confederation created a weak central government with a unicameral legislature that lacked authority over states. Each state had one vote, regardless of population, leading to unequal representation. The absence of an executive branch meant there was no enforcement mechanism for laws, while no national judiciary made it difficult to resolve disputes between states. This framework resulted in a lack of coherence and effectiveness in governance.
• Analyze how Shays' Rebellion exposed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and influenced calls for change.
  • Shays' Rebellion was a critical event that revealed the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation. The uprising was fueled by economic hardship and perceived injustices faced by farmers in Massachusetts. The inability of the federal government to respond effectively showcased its lack of power to maintain order and protect citizens. This event prompted widespread realization that a stronger national government was necessary, leading to discussions at the Constitutional Convention.
• Evaluate the significance of the transition from the Articles of Confederation to the U.S. Constitution in shaping American governance.
  • The transition from the Articles of Confederation to the U.S. Constitution marked a pivotal moment in American governance, reflecting a shift towards a stronger federal system. The new Constitution addressed critical weaknesses by establishing a bicameral legislature, an executive branch, and a system of checks and balances. This change allowed for more effective governance, enabling Congress to levy taxes and regulate interstate commerce. Ultimately, this transition laid the foundation for a stable national government capable of addressing both domestic and international challenges.

Related terms

Shays' Rebellion:

An armed uprising in 1786-1787 by Massachusetts farmers protesting economic injustices and the lack of government response, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Northwest Ordinance:

A policy established in 1787 for the administration of the Northwest Territory, which included provisions for statehood and the prohibition of slavery in the new territories.

Constitutional Convention:

The 1787 gathering in Philadelphia where delegates met to address the problems of the Articles of Confederation, ultimately leading to the creation of the U.S. Constitution.