USA HISTORY

MAKING OF A NEW NATION 1776 1800

THE ARTICLES OF CONFEDERATION

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
The country under the Articles of Confederation could not defend itself because it could not
A
collect taxes
B
amend the Articles
C
create a national Army
D
None of the above
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -One of the biggest problems was that the national government had no power to impose taxes. To avoid any perception of “taxation without representation, ” the Articles of Confederation allowed only state governments to levy taxes. To pay for its expenses, the national government had to request money from the states.

Detailed explanation-2: -Congress was unable to impose taxes; it could only borrow money on credit. No national court system was established to protect the rights of U.S. citizens. No executive branch was established to enforce laws. Amendments could be added only with the approval of all 13 states.

Detailed explanation-3: -With the passage of time, weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation became apparent; Congress commanded little respect and no support from state governments anxious to maintain their power. Congress could not raise funds, regulate trade, or conduct foreign policy without the voluntary agreement of the states.

Detailed explanation-4: -Concerned with the accumulation of power in too few hands, the Articles did not establish an executive branch and they greatly circumscribed the role of courts. Even Congress had only those powers “expressly delegated” to it by the states.

There is 1 question to complete.