Constitution Week Spotlight

Sept. 18

On day two of Constitution Week, we focus on the Articles of Confederation.

The Articles of Confederation, adopted in 1777 and ratified in 1781, was the first governing document of the United States. It created a loose alliance among the 13 states, giving most of the power to the individual states rather than a central government. Under the Articles, Congress was the only national governing body, and it had very limited authority. It could declare war, make treaties and manage relations with Native American tribes, but it could not collect taxes, regulate trade or enforce laws. Each state, regardless of size, had one vote in Congress, reflecting the fear of centralized power that had grown out of the colonies’ experiences under British rule.

While the Articles provided a framework that helped guide the young nation through the Revolutionary War, weaknesses soon became clear. Without the power to raise revenue or enforce decisions, the national government struggled to function effectively. Economic problems, disputes between states and events like Shays’ Rebellion revealed the need for a stronger, more balanced system of government. These shortcomings ultimately led to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where the Articles were replaced by the U.S. Constitution, creating the more unified and enduring government structure still in place today.

Today’s quiz:

What was missing under the Articles of Confederation?
a) An executive branch to enforce laws b) A judicial branch to interpret laws c) A strong national military d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above

Why was it difficult to amend the Articles of Confederation?
a) Amendments required the president’s approval b) Amendments required approval from all 13 states c) Amendments required a majority vote in Congress d) Amendments required approval from the Supreme Court
Answer: b) Amendments required approval from all 13 states.

This Constitution Week Spotlight was provided by Lt. George Farragut Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Info: lgfdar.com