What is one reason the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation?
The articles limited the type of taxes the central government could collect.
The articles gave the central government no power to collect taxes.
The articles required the central government to give tax money to the states.
The articles weakened the power of state governments to collect taxes.
The articles limited the type of taxes the central government could collect.
One reason the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation was that the articles gave the central government no power to collect taxes.
The correct answer to the question is: The articles gave the central government no power to collect taxes.
To arrive at this answer, let's analyze each option:
1. The articles limited the type of taxes the central government could collect.
This statement is not the primary reason the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation. While it is true that the articles placed limitations on the central government's ability to collect taxes, it is not the main reason the debt was not paid.
2. The articles gave the central government no power to collect taxes.
This statement accurately reflects one of the main reasons the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation. The central government lacked the authority to impose taxes, leaving them without a reliable source of revenue to fund their obligations.
3. The articles required the central government to give tax money to the states.
This statement does not align with the primary reason for the United States' inability to pay its debts. Although the Articles of Confederation did require the central government to distribute tax money to the states, this provision alone did not prevent the payment of debts. The lack of taxing power for the central government was the more significant limitation.
4. The articles weakened the power of state governments to collect taxes.
This statement is not the main reason the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation. Although the articles did weaken state governments in their ability to collect taxes, this did not directly impact the central government's responsibility to pay its debts.
In conclusion, among the given options, the correct reason why the United States could not pay its debts under the Articles of Confederation is that the articles gave the central government no power to collect taxes.