1.  1781 – The 1 st Constitution of the United States. It was a confederate form of government.  1783 – War is over (Treaty of Paris)

2.  Structure  Single Chambered Body Unicameral  Each State Had One Vote  No Executive Branch  No Judicial Branch  Presiding Officer (No President)

3.  Responsibilities  Make Peace and War  Send and Receive Ambassadors  Enter Treaties  Borrow Money  Set Up Monetary System  Set Up Navy/Army  Set Standards of Weights and Measures  Settle Disputes Between States

4.  Weaknesses  Could Not Tax  One Vote Per State  Could Not Regulate Foreign or Interstate Commerce  No Executive To Enforce Law  No National Court System  Amendments Only With Consent Of ALL States  9/13 Majority Required To Pass Laws.