The Articles of Confederation were replaced with the Constitution because the Articles created a weak central government that lacked essential powers such as taxation, regulating commerce, and maintaining a military. This weakness made it difficult for the government to address economic problems, enforce laws, and quell internal rebellions like Shays' Rebellion. The Constitution established a stronger federal government with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches, gave the federal government more power over money and taxes, and created a more effective and adaptable system of governance to unite and govern the growing nation effectively.
Key weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
- The central government had no power to tax and had to request money from states with no enforcement means.
- There was no executive or judicial branch, only a single legislative body with limited powers.
- States retained most of the sovereignty, causing disunity and protectionist trade barriers.
- The government could not maintain order or address economic turmoil effectively.
Improvements with the Constitution
- Created three separate branches of government to prevent concentration of power.
- Gave Congress power to tax individuals and regulate interstate commerce.
- Established a stronger national government with ability to enforce laws and maintain a military.
- Made the Constitution the supreme law, overriding state laws when necessary and providing a living document capable of amendment.
These changes addressed the failures of the Articles, enabling a more cohesive and powerful federal system necessary for nation-building and stability.
