Several issues and events highlighted the insufficiency of the power of the central government under the Articles of Confederation. Here are some key ones:
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Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787): This armed uprising, led by Daniel Shays, was a response to economic difficulties and harsh tax policies in Massachusetts. The federal government's inability to raise a militia to respond effectively demonstrated its weakness and lack of authority.
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Economic Issues: The central government could not impose taxes or regulate commerce effectively, leading to financial instability. States often imposed tariffs on each other, leading to economic discord.
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Interstate Conflicts: Disputes between states over borders and trade created tensions, and the federal government had no power to resolve these conflicts or enforce law and order.
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Lack of Military Power: The inability to raise a standing army or navy left the nation vulnerable to external threats and internal insurrections.
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Treaties and Foreign Relations: The central government lacked the authority to enforce treaties or conduct foreign policy effectively, leading to issues with British and Spanish territory and commerce.
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The Annapolis Convention (1786): Called to address issues of trade and commerce among the states, it revealed that delegates from many states were dissatisfied with the Articles, leading to calls for a stronger federal government.
These events and issues collectively demonstrated the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation, ultimately leading to the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
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