Exploring the First Constitution: The Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation was technically the first Constitution for this new country. The fear was giving too much power to a central government as with Britain. Per Article II, “Each state retains its sovereignty, freedom, independence, and every power not specifically granted to the new Congress.” (The Articles of Confederation, 2015) Congress had the ability to create treaties and alliances with other countries, create post offices, create money, and build a central military. Since it did not want to levy the taxes as Britain had, it requested funding through the states. Commerce was regulated by the States. However, if war was deemed necessary, or treaties needed to be made, as well as an increase in production of money were needed, Congress would need 9 of the 13 states to

In order for this to work, the states would have to give back some of their rights to the central government. This would require many ratifications and categories to cover these powers. One of the key disadvantages of the Articles was the issue of taxes. Congress would request that states “donate funds” to the government, whereas now Congress could tax individuals. Military would also become a central function through Congress. Trade and interstate commerce which was controlled unsuccessfully by the states would now be regulated by Congress.

Then, Congress divided the federal government into the Executive Branch (the President has executive powers and oversees Congress), the Senate (which gives states 2 votes), and the House of Representatives (based on population). (The Senate and the United States Constitution, 2015) In order to amend any document, instead of unanimous vote, you now need 2/3 of both houses as well as ¾ of state or a national convention needs to be convened. (The Senate and the United States Constitution,