Weakness of the AOC

Articles of Confederation (AOC)

The first constitution of the United States, creating a loose confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government.

Weakness of AOC

Maintained little power compared to state governments, with no administrative head or mechanism to enforce resolutions.

Unanimous Ratification

A requirement for amendments to the Articles of Confederation; all states had to agree for a change to be made.

Inability to Tax

A significant weakness of the AOC as it could not raise funds for governmental expenditures.

Interstate Trade Regulation

Difficult under the AOC, contributing to a weak economy.

War Debt

Debt incurred to finance the Revolutionary War that could not be adequately addressed under the AOC.

Newburgh Conspiracy (1783)

A plot by Continental Army officers to challenge the authority of Congress due to unpaid salaries.

5% Import Duty

A proposed solution for financial problems under the AOC that was ultimately rejected.

Morris Notes

A stable currency proposed by Robert Morris, backed by French bullion and his personal wealth.

Bank of North America

The first chartered bank in the U.S., intended to fund government operations but faced controversy.

Loyalist Issues

Challenges stemming from unresolved loyalty conflicts and land disputes after the Revolutionary War.

Indian Resistance

Native American opposition to American expansion and settlement during the post-war period.