Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation, formally named the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union, was an agreement among all thirteen original states in the United States of America that served as its first constitution. All thirteen states ratified (validated or approved) the Articles in early 1781.  In 1789, the Founding Fathers replaced the Articles with the United States Constitution and a federal form of government.

 

The Problems with the Articles of Confederation

• created a national governing system that placed most power in the hands of the states. The Founders feared giving too much power to a central government, which might become tyrannical (authoritarian).
• left a central government that could not fund itself, resolve disputes between its component states, or defend the country.

 

Video Resource: Review the video below to learn more about the Articles of Confederation. Pay close attention to details.

 

 

Select the NEXT button to continue your learning journey!