Articles of Confederation

Structure United States began as a confederation “A Firm League of Friendship” with a weak national government Each state retained “its sovereignty, freedom and independence.” Unicameral Congress One vote per state No judiciary, No executive  States handled these functions

Powers of Congress War and peace Ambassadors Treaties Borrow money Settle disputes between the states

State obligations Obey Congress Provide $ and troops Full faith and credit Fair treatment of citizens  Privileges and immunities Allow open trade and travel Submit disputes to Congress

Challenges for the Government Debt from the Revolution Westward Expansion Alliances British presence in North America and Spanish in present day CA and FL

Weaknesses? The writers of the Articles of Confederation were reluctant to give new government powers they had just denied to Parliament. No power to tax = no revenue (had to ASK states) No power to regulate or promote interstate commerce Lacked both executive and judicial authority 9/13 to exercise power 13/13 to amend the Articles State size not reflected in Congressional vote

Strengths Peace Treaty with G. Britain  Land and recognition Cabinet precedent  Foreign affairs, war and treasury Northwest Ordinance  Fair development of lands west of Appalachians and new states  Support for public education