Question

Why was it important that the Constitution gave the federal government the power to "ensure domestic tranquility"?
A.
Invasions from Canada were threatening to take western frontiers.
B.
Taxes were so high that the economy began to fail.
C.
Individual states refused to raise militias to keep the peace.
D.
The Confederation Congress had no power to put down rebellions.

Answer 1

D. The Confederation Congress had no power to put down rebellions. The inability of the national government under the Articles of Confederation to quell uprisings (e.g., Shays' Rebellion) showed the need for federal authority to maintain public order.