The Impact of the Articles of Confederation on the U.S. Government

What powers did the U.S. government have under the Articles of Confederation?

A. Declare war

B. Raise taxes

C. Enforce laws

D. Elect a president

Answer:

The U.S. government was allowed to declare war under the Articles of Confederation.

The Articles of Confederation, ratified in 1781, served as the first constitution of the United States. This document established a weak central government and vested most power in the individual states. Under the Articles of Confederation, the U.S. government had limited authority in comparison to the current system defined by the U.S. Constitution.

One of the few powers granted to the U.S. government under the Articles of Confederation was the ability to declare war. This authority was crucial, especially during a time when the nation was still developing and facing various threats both domestically and internationally.

Although the ability to declare war was important, the lack of other powers such as the authority to raise taxes or enforce laws highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. The absence of a strong central government ultimately led to the drafting and ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1789, which established a more robust federal system.

In conclusion, while the U.S. government had the power to declare war under the Articles of Confederation, the limitations of this document underscored the need for a more effective and centralized governing structure.