The two issues that highlighted the insufficiency of the power of the central government under the Articles of Confederation are:
-
The rebellion of farmers in Massachusetts due to an increase in taxes: This rebellion, known as Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787), underscored the inability of the central government to maintain order and provide assistance to states in times of crisis. The federal government was powerless to intervene, which demonstrated a significant weakness in its authority.
-
The central government’s ability to impose taxes on states: The Articles of Confederation did not grant the central government the power to impose taxes directly on states or individuals. As a result, the government struggled to raise revenue, which impeded its ability to pay debts, support troops, or fund essential services, thereby highlighting the inadequacy of its financial authority.
These two points specifically exemplify the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the necessity for a stronger central government, which ultimately led to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.