List three problems of decentralized power that existed under the Articles of Confederation. For each problem you listed, indentify one solution that the Constitution provided to address the problem.
Under the Articles of Confederation, which was the first constitutional framework of the United States from 1781 to 1789, there were three main problems related to decentralized power. The Constitution was crafted to address these problems and provide solutions. Let's look at each problem and its corresponding solution:
Problem 1: Weak Central Government
The central government established under the Articles of Confederation was extremely weak, lacking the power to enforce laws, raise funds, or regulate trade effectively. This led to a lack of unity and coordination among the states.
Solution 1: Stronger Central Government
The Constitution aimed to establish a stronger central government by creating three separate branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. These branches were designed to check and balance each other's power, allowing for a more effective and unified central government. Additionally, the Constitution granted specific powers to the federal government, such as the power to tax and regulate interstate commerce.
Problem 2: Inadequate Revenue and Financial Problems
Under the Articles, the central government had limited power to raise revenue and faced significant financial difficulties. It could not tax directly and relied heavily on voluntary contributions from the states, which often fell short.
Solution 2: Power to Tax and Regulate Commerce
To address the financial problems, the Constitution gave the federal government the power to levy taxes directly on individuals and regulate interstate commerce. This allowed for a consistent and reliable source of revenue, enabling the central government to fulfill its obligations and maintain financial stability.
Problem 3: Lack of a Unified Military and National Defense
The Articles of Confederation did not provide a strong military or allow for a unified front in matters of national defense. Each state had its own militia, leading to significant coordination challenges and leaving the country vulnerable to external threats.
Solution 3: Established a Federal Army
To overcome this problem, the Constitution authorized the creation of a federal army and granted the central government the power to maintain and regulate it. By having a unified military under federal control, the Constitution aimed to ensure a stronger national defense and improve the country's security.
In summary, the three main problems of decentralized power under the Articles of Confederation were a weak central government, financial difficulties, and a lack of unified military. The Constitution addressed these problems by establishing a stronger central government, granting the power to tax and regulate commerce, and creating a federal army.