describe the structure of the central(federal) government under the Articles of Confederation. What revolutionary principles were enacted though this structure? Why did the structure fail to created an enduring government?
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It was designed to be weak, which was why it could not be a lasting government.It had too little power over the states and was often ignored by state governments. It lacked the authority to tax and exercise control over the states. It could not pays off its debt from the war.
What should I add? and also I don't know how to answer "what revolutionary principles were enacted through this structure?" Thanks!
Also add that no national statutes could be passed without the approval of all 13 states, making federal laws difficult to pass. You already mentioned the fact that the central government was meant to be weak and did not have the power to tax, which are the revolutionary principles enacted. In addition, the inability to raise taxes prevented a standing federal militia, which was another main revolutionary idea, the fear of a standing army to make the central govt tyrannical
To further answer your question, let's delve into the structure of the central government under the Articles of Confederation.
The central government established by the Articles of Confederation consisted of a unicameral legislature called the Continental Congress. Each state would send delegates to this Congress, with each state having one vote. The central government had limited powers that primarily focused on conducting foreign affairs, declaring war, negotiating treaties, and managing relations with Native American tribes. It also regulated the coinage of money and established post offices.
Regarding the revolutionary principles enacted through this structure, the Articles of Confederation reflected the desire of the American colonies to have a government that was fundamentally different from the British monarchy they had fought against during the Revolutionary War. The principles included a decentralized system of government, where power was predominantly held by individual states, and a limited central government that aimed to prevent the abuse of power.
These principles were influenced by the fear of creating a strong central government that could potentially infringe upon the rights and liberties of the states and the people. The Articles of Confederation established a system of government that sought to safeguard against tyranny and promote the self-governance of individual states.
Despite the intention to protect individual liberties, the structural weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation ultimately led to its downfall and the need for a stronger federal government. The lack of centralized power and authority hindered the central government's ability to enforce laws and regulate commerce effectively. It was unable to raise revenue through taxes, struggled to maintain a common currency, and encountered difficulties in coordinating and executing actions on behalf of the nation as a whole. These shortcomings resulted in economic instability, conflicts between states, and inadequate defense capabilities.
In summary, while the Articles of Confederation embodied revolutionary principles such as limited government and decentralized power, its inability to provide for an effective and enduring central government ultimately led to its replacement by the United States Constitution in 1789. The weaknesses of the central government under the Articles of Confederation, notably its limited powers and lack of authority over the states, contributed to its failure as a successful framework for governing the newly independent United States.