Question

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

Answer 1

C. The Confederation Congress had no power to put down rebellions.

Under the Articles of Confederation the national government lacked authority to raise troops or effectively respond to internal unrest (e.g., Shays' Rebellion), so the framers gave the federal government power to "ensure domestic tranquility" to maintain order.