Independent states unified under a weak central government would generally be part of a "confederate government," but of course the specific weakness of the central government can vary greatly.
mark Twain called the late 19th century the "Gilded Age." By this, he meant that the period was glittering on the surface but corrupt underneath. ... It is easy to caricature the Gilded Age as an era of corruption, conspicuous consumption, and unfettered capitalism.
Magna Carta
Petition of rights
Bill of rights