Articles of Confederationby United States Congress | |
| List(s): | "Carp 500" |
|---|---|
| Category: |
"U.S. History - Political" |
| Pages: | 12 |
| Year of Publication: | 1778 |
| Date Read: | 08/25/1998 |
| Notes: | Before the Constitution, there was The Articles of Confederation — in effect, the first constitution of the United States. Drafted in 1777 by the same Continental Congress that passed the Declaration of Independence, the articles established a "firm league of friendship" between and among the 13 states. Created during the throes of the Revolutionary War, the Articles reflect the wariness by the states of a strong central government. Under the Articles each of the states retained their "sovereignty, freedom and independence." COMMENTS — Instead of setting up executive and judicial branches of government, there was a committee of delegates composed of representatives from each state. The Articles denied Congress the power to collect taxes, regulate interstate commerce and enforce laws. Eventually, these shortcomings would lead to the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. But during those years in which the 13 states were struggling to achieve their independent status, the Articles of Confederation stood them in good stead. |
| My Rating: | 8 |