1. Articles of the Confederation

2. Written during the American Revolution during the Second Continental Congress in 1777.
Meant to be the 1st Constitution of the United States.
It was their plan for government.
John Dickinson led the committee that wrote the articles.

3. Was approved by all 13 colonies.
Went into effect in 1781.
It helped keep the states united during the American Revolution.
Formed a government that allowed for a lot of state power.

4. What did it say: Named the nation United States of America.
Each state retains it freedom and independence.
States will be united in defense, security, and general welfare.
Freedom of movement between states
One vote per state in Congress; regulated delegates term in office
Only the national government is allowed to conduct foreign relations and to declare war.
Army and Navy is raised for common defense and ranks below colonel will be named by state.
Expenses for the nation will be paid by funds collected by the states.

5. What did it say:
Defines the power of central/national government. (ex: declare war, serve as court for issues between states)
Committee of the States to be government when Congress is not in session.
9 states must approve a new law
Canada entitled to all advantages of union but no other colony shall be admitted
unless agreed upon by 9 states.
War debt is incurred by Congress
Changes can only be altered by approval
of Congress by ALL states.

6. It accomplished…
Helped keep the states united during the American Revolution.
Made laws for the new nation.
Was a development of a government that they believed they wanted.
A government with a lot of state power.

7. Strengths Power to form army and navy Foreign affairs
Declare war or peace
Postal Service
Coin Money
Formation of new states

8. Do you see any problems/weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
Do you see any problems/weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation? Or is there anything missing?

9. Weaknesses Provided for a weak national government
Gave Congress no power to tax or regulate commerce among the states
Provided for no common currency
Gave each state one vote regardless of size
Provided for no executive or judicial branches of government