Summary of the Articles of Confederation

Articles of Confederation Overview

• Written in 1776 and ratified in 1781 by thirteen states.
• Maryland was the last state to ratify.
• First form of government for the United States.

Government Structure

• Confederation: Power resides primarily with independent states, limited power of central government.
• Influenced by colonists' experiences with King George III.
• Aim: Prevent unfair taxation and protect individual rights.

Powers of Government

• States held most power; acted as independent entities.
• States could pass their own laws, negotiate trade agreements, and establish militaries.
• Weak national legislature; central government lacked control over states.

Limitations of the Articles

• Congress could not tax, leading to inability to fund national defense.
• No power to regulate interstate trade.
• No enforcement of laws due to lack of central authority and judicial system.
• Changes to Articles required unanimous consent from all states, complicating amendments.

Economic Challenges

• By 1786, U.S. economy struggled due to Revolutionary War debts and inter-state disputes.
• Farmers and merchants were adversely affected.

Shays's Rebellion

• A revolt by 2,000 farmers in Massachusetts to prevent land foreclosures.
• Farmers revolted due to unfulfilled promises regarding tax payments during the war.
• Congress was unable to respond effectively; rebellion subdued by Massachusetts militia.

Path to the Constitution

• After Shays's Rebellion, Alexander Hamilton convened the Constitutional Convention in 1787.
• Aim: Address weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
• Led to drafting of the Constitution in 1787, establishing a stronger federal government.