Question

Short Answer Response Questions:
In a paragraph (4-5 complete sentences)
Discuss the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation outlined in your notes and explain how they contributed to the decision to create a new constitution. Include specific examples from your notes to support your answer.
*
10 points

Answer 1

The weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation were numerous and had a significant impact on the decision to create a new constitution. Firstly, one of its inherent weaknesses was the lack of a strong central government. This was evident in the fact that Congress lacked the power to enforce laws and had no authority to levy taxes. As stated in my notes, this led to a lack of funds for the government which hindered its ability to function effectively. Additionally, the absence of an executive branch meant that there was no one to carry out and enforce the laws passed by Congress, resulting in a weak and ineffective national government. Another weakness of the Articles of Confederation was the lack of a national judiciary system. Without a central court system, there was no way to settle disputes between states, leading to potential conflicts and a lack of unity among the states. For instance, my notes mention that there were frequent trade disputes and disagreements over boundary lines between states that remained unresolved. These weaknesses ultimately contributed to the realization that a new constitution was necessary in order to establish a stronger federal government that could effectively address the needs and challenges facing the nation.