The Approval of the Articles of Confederation

On November 15, 1777, the Continental Congress approved the Articles of Confederation, marking a significant milestone in the formation of the United States’ government. This event laid the groundwork for the nation’s first constitution, which would guide the fledgling country through the Revolutionary War and the early years of independence.

Context and Background

The need for a unified national government became evident as the American colonies sought independence from British rule. The Continental Congress, which had been convening since 1774, recognized the necessity of establishing a formal framework to govern the collective interests of the thirteen colonies.

The drafting of the Articles of Confederation began in 1776, spearheaded by a committee led by John Dickinson of Pennsylvania. The process was marked by debates over the balance of power between the central government and the states, reflecting the colonies’ wariness of centralized authority due to their experiences under British rule.

Key Provisions

The Articles of Confederation established a confederation of sovereign states with a weak central government. Some of the key features included:

• Unicameral Legislature: The Congress was the sole body of the national government, with each state having one vote, regardless of size or population.
• Limited Powers: The central government had limited powers, primarily focused on foreign affairs, war, and postal services. It lacked the authority to levy taxes or regulate commerce.
• State Sovereignty: States retained most of their sovereignty and independence, with the Articles emphasizing a “firm league of friendship” among them.
• Amendment Process: Any amendments to the Articles required unanimous consent from all thirteen states, making changes difficult to achieve.

Ratification and Implementation

Although the Articles were approved by the Continental Congress in 1777, they required ratification by all thirteen states. This process was not completed until March 1, 1781, when Maryland became the last state to ratify the document. The delay was primarily due to disputes over western land claims.

Significance and Consequences

The Articles of Confederation served as the United States’ first constitution and provided a framework for governance during the latter part of the Revolutionary War. However, its limitations soon became apparent:

• Weak Central Government: The inability to levy taxes or regulate commerce led to financial difficulties and interstate disputes.
• Lack of Executive and Judicial Branches: The absence of a strong executive and a national judiciary hindered effective governance and law enforcement.

These weaknesses prompted calls for a stronger federal government, ultimately leading to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The result was the drafting of the United States Constitution, which replaced the Articles of Confederation and established a more robust federal system.

In conclusion, the approval of the Articles of Confederation on November 15, 1777, was a crucial step in the development of the United States’ governmental structure. While it provided a necessary framework during a critical period, its shortcomings highlighted the need for a more effective national government, paving the way for the Constitution that governs the United States today.