Question

Two facts that epitomize the articles of confederation and explain how each one epitomizes the essence of the article of confederation

Answer 1

The Articles of Confederation was an agreement among the 13 original states of the United States, and it served as its first constitution. It came into force on March 1, 1787, after being ratified by all the states. The most important principle of the articles was to preserve the sovereignty of the states. The only powers given to the central government were those previously recognized as belonging to the English government. Two facts that epitomize this guiding principle are:

• One vote per state: This requirement ensured that each state was recognized as equal among the others, and was allowed equal participation. This protected the independence of each state and their right to self-determination.

• No power to tax: Another way in which the articles protected the sovereignty of each state was by allowing them to collect their own taxes. The federal government would then ask for a contribution from the states, which often left Congress and the Army short of money.