Articles of Confederation

  1. What does each state retain?
    Sovereignty, freedom, independence, and all powers not expressly delegated to the U.S. in Congress. (Art. II)

  2. What did each state enter into?
    A “firm league of friendship.” (Art. III)

  3. Why did the states enter this agreement?
    For common defense, security of their liberties, and mutual/general welfare, pledging to aid one another against any attacks. (Art. III)

  4. What privileges were “free inhabitants” entitled to?
    The privileges and immunities of free citizens in every state; free movement between states; equal treatment in trade subject to the same duties. (Art. IV)

  5. Who were excluded from these privileges?
    Paupers, vagabonds, and fugitives from justice. (Art. IV)

  6. Meaning of “Full Faith and Credit”?
    Each state must recognize and honor the official records, acts, and judicial proceedings of every other state. (Art. IV)

  7. How many delegates per state?
    No fewer than 2, no more than 7. (Art. V)

  8. How many votes per state?
    One vote per state. (Art. V)

  9. How many states must approve action?
    For major actions listed in Art. IX, nine of thirteen states (a supermajority). (Art. IX; routine questions were by simple majority in Art. V.)

  10. Three or more powers in Article IX (if approved):

  • Declare war and make peace

  • Send/receive ambassadors; make treaties/alliances

  • Establish courts for captures/piracies

  • Fix value of coin; standards of weights/measures

  • Regulate Indian affairs (not under state jurisdiction)

  • Establish post offices and postage

  • Appoint army/navy officers; make military/naval rules (Art. IX)

  1. Why no federal power to tax?
    They feared centralized tyranny after British taxation; kept revenue control with states and made Congress rely on state requisitions.

  2. Why no executive (president/governor)?
    To avoid a king-like authority; they wanted weak central power and state supremacy, so they did not create a single executive.