Articles of Confederation Worksheet

The Articles of Confederation worksheet provides a comprehensive overview of this important historical document. Designed for students studying U.S. history, this worksheet explores the key points and concepts found within the Articles of Confederation. Through a series of questions and activities, students will gain a deeper understanding of the structure, powers, and limitations of the early American government. This worksheet is an essential resource for educators seeking to teach their students about the foundation of our nation's government.

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When were the Articles of Confederation ratified?

The Articles of Confederation were ratified on March 1, 1781.

What was the purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

The purpose of the Articles of Confederation was to establish a system of government for the newly independent United States of America. It aimed to create a central government with limited powers, focusing on granting significant authority to the individual states to govern themselves while promoting unity and cooperation among them.

How did the Articles of Confederation establish a government structure?

The Articles of Confederation established a government structure by creating a weak central government with most power remaining in the hands of the states. The document set up a unicameral Congress where each state had one vote and outlined the limited powers of the national government, such as conducting foreign relations and declaring war. However, it lacked the ability to enforce laws, collect taxes, or regulate commerce effectively, leading to numerous weaknesses that ultimately led to its replacement by the Constitution.

What powers did the Articles of Confederation grant to the national government?

The Articles of Confederation granted the national government the power to declare war, conduct foreign affairs, establish a postal service, establish a currency, and manage relations with Native American tribes. However, the central government lacked the power to enforce its laws, levy taxes, regulate trade, and raise an army, leading to its ultimate inadequacy and the need for a stronger federal system under the Constitution.

How was the judiciary under the Articles of Confederation structured?

Under the Articles of Confederation, the judiciary was structured with each state having its own courts to handle most legal matters. There was no national judiciary system, which led to inconsistencies in legal interpretations and enforcement across the states. The lack of a central judiciary weakened the ability to resolve disputes between states and enforce federal laws, contributing to the decision to form a stronger federal judiciary under the Constitution.

What weaknesses were identified in the Articles of Confederation?

Weaknesses identified in the Articles of Confederation included the lack of a strong central government with the power to enforce laws, raise taxes, and regulate trade, leading to difficulties in funding the government and addressing national issues. Additionally, there was no national court system, which created challenges in resolving disputes between states. The inability to regulate commerce among states and to oversee foreign policy also hindered the effectiveness of the government under the Articles of Confederation.

How did the Articles of Confederation affect the relationship between the states?

The Articles of Confederation created a weak central government with limited power to regulate trade, enforce laws, and collect taxes, leading to a lack of unity and coordination among the states. This resulted in competition and conflicts between the states over issues such as trade, borders, and tariffs, weakening the overall relationship between the states and highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.

How did the Articles of Confederation address taxation and representation?

The Articles of Confederation addressed taxation by allowing the federal government to request funds from the states but had no power to enforce taxation. Representation was based on the population of each state, with each state receiving one vote in Congress. However, decisions required a supermajority, making it difficult to pass legislation effectively.

How did the Articles of Confederation handle disputes between states?

The Articles of Confederation handled disputes between states through a system of state-appointed commissioners who were tasked with resolving disagreements through arbitration. If the commissioners were unable to reach a decision, the issue would be referred to a committee of Congress for a final decision. This process aimed to peacefully resolve conflicts and maintain harmony among the states in the early United States.

What ultimately led to the replacement of the Articles of Confederation?

The inadequacies and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, such as the lack of a centralized government, inability to tax, and difficulties in regulating trade and dealing with foreign nations, ultimately led to their replacement. The failure of the Articles to effectively govern the new nation and address its challenges prompted the Constitutional Convention of 1787 to be called, resulting in the drafting and adoption of the United States Constitution, which replaced the Articles of Confederation as the governing document for the United States.