Name two weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. For each weakness explain how that weakness led to the writing of the US Constitution.
In 25 words or less
Format your answer as follows:
1. Naming the first weakness, then the explanation of how that weakness led to the writing of the US Constitution
2. Naming the second weakness, then the explanation of how that weakness led to the writing of the US Constitution
1. Lack of centralized power: The inability to enforce laws and collect taxes led to the writing of the US Constitution, which established a stronger central government.
2. Inability to regulate trade: The inability to regulate interstate and international trade led to the writing of the US Constitution, which granted the federal government the power to regulate commerce.
1. Weakness: Lack of central government power.
Explanation: The Articles of Confederation did not establish a strong central government, which led to difficulties in maintaining order and resolving disputes between states. This weakness ultimately led to the writing of the US Constitution, which sought to create a more powerful federal government with the ability to enforce laws and regulate interstate commerce.
2. Weakness: Inability to levy taxes.
Explanation: The Articles of Confederation did not give the central government the authority to levy taxes, leading to financial instability and an inability to fund the military or pay debts. This weakness played a significant role in the writing of the US Constitution, as it prompted the creation of a new framework that granted the federal government the power to tax and manage the nation's finances effectively.
1. Lack of centralized power: The Articles of Confederation did not provide a strong central government, leading to difficulties in making and enforcing national laws. This weakness demonstrated the need for a stronger federal government, resulting in the writing of the US Constitution which established a more centralized authority.
2. Inability to collect taxes: The Articles of Confederation did not grant the federal government the power to levy taxes, making it difficult to fund national initiatives and pay off war debts. This weakness highlighted the need for a system that allowed the federal government to generate revenue, leading to the writing of the US Constitution which granted Congress the power to tax.