1. Sovereignty of states: The Articles allowed each state to retain its sovereignty, meaning they maintained control over their internal affairs and laws.
2. Prevented a strong central government: The Articles limited the power of the central government, preventing it from becoming too powerful and potentially infringing on the rights and freedoms of the states.
3. Promoted individual freedoms: The Articles placed an emphasis on protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals, including the right to trial by jury and the right to enter into contracts.
4. Allowed for the admission of new states: The Articles provided a process for new states to join the union, allowing for the expansion and growth of the United States.
Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation:
1. Weak central government: The central government created under the Articles was extremely weak, lacking the power to enforce laws and collect taxes effectively.
2. Inability to regulate trade: The Articles did not grant the central government the power to regulate interstate trade, leading to disputes between states and difficulties in establishing a unified economic system.
3. No executive or judicial branch: The Articles only established a unicameral legislature, which meant there was no separate executive branch to enforce laws or a judicial branch to interpret them.
4. Difficulty in amending the Articles: Requiring the unanimous consent of all states to amend the Articles made it almost impossible to make any significant changes, leading to a stagnant and ineffective system of government.
5. Lack of a common currency: The Articles did not provide for a common currency, resulting in economic confusion and difficulties in conducting trade between states.
6. Alliances with foreign nations: The central government had no power to form alliances with foreign nations or negotiate treaties, making it difficult for the United States to establish itself as a sovereign entity on the world stage.
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