The Articles of Confederation and the Challenges of State Trade Relations

The video discusses the transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution in the United States. Initially, the Articles created a weak national government, leading to trade disputes among states. James Madison highlighted these issues, prompting the Constitutional Convention. The Constitution, ratified in 1789, granted Congress the power to regulate trade, ending state tariffs. Over time, the Commerce Clause has been interpreted broadly, expanding federal regulatory powers.

What was a major limitation of the national government under the Articles of Confederation?

• It could not form alliances with foreign nations.

• It could not declare war.

• It could not regulate trade between states.

• It could not establish a postal service.

Why were tariffs between states problematic under the Articles of Confederation?

• They led to increased national debt.

• They were too low to generate significant revenue.

• They caused trade wars and ill will among states.

• They were not enforceable by the national government.

What was a consequence of the national government's inability to standardize tariffs under the Articles?

• Deepening national debt.

• Resolution of trade disputes.

• Strengthening of state governments.

• Increased national unity.

What was James Madison's view on state trade restrictions?

• They were beneficial for state economies.

• They were necessary for national security.

• They were harmful to the spirit of the Union.

• They were in line with the federal Articles.

What did James Madison's pamphlet highlight about state practices?

• They were beneficial for national harmony.

• They were contrary to the federal Articles.

• They were destructive of general harmony.

• They were supportive of the Union's spirit.

What significant power did the Constitution grant to Congress?

• The power to declare war.

• The power to regulate trade among states.

• The power to appoint state governors.

• The power to establish state laws.

What was a key limitation on Congress's power to tax under the Constitution?

• Taxes had to be uniform across all states.

• Taxes could only be levied on imports.

• Taxes could not exceed a certain percentage.

• Taxes were only applicable to foreign goods.

What was a result of the Constitution's ratification regarding trade regulation?

• States could regulate trade among themselves.

• Congress had sole authority to regulate trade.

• States could impose tariffs on foreign goods.

• Congress could not levy taxes on imports.

How has the interpretation of the Commerce Clause changed over time?

• It has been abolished.

• It has become more restrictive.

• It has remained the same.

• It has been interpreted more broadly.

What was the original purpose of the Commerce Clause in the Constitution?

• To allow states to impose tariffs on each other.

• To give states the power to regulate foreign trade.

• To prevent Congress from regulating trade.

• To end state tariffs and duties.