Understanding the Articles of Confederation

The video explains the founders' fear of a strong central government, rooted in their experiences with British rule. To address this fear, the Articles of Confederation were created, forming a loose alliance among the 13 states with minimal central authority. The central government had limited powers, such as making treaties and requesting war funding, but lacked enforcement capabilities, highlighting the preference for state sovereignty over centralized control.

Why did the founders fear a strong central government?

• They believed it would protect their rights.

• They thought it would lead to a monarchy.

• They felt it would infringe on their rights as the British government did.

• They wanted to avoid international conflicts.

What was a consequence of a government being far from its people?

• It would reduce taxes.

• It would need to use force to impose its will.

• It would increase public participation.

• It would become more democratic.

How did the colonists address their fear of a strong central government?

• By creating a monarchy.

• By forming a strong central government.

• By seeking independence from all forms of government.

• By establishing the Articles of Confederation.

What was the nature of the Articles of Confederation?

• A strong central government.

• A firm league of friendship among states.

• A centralized military alliance.

• A binding agreement over the people.

What powers were granted to the central government under the Articles of Confederation?

• The power to levy taxes directly on the people.

• The power to create treaties and request funds for war.

• The power to enforce laws over the states.

• The power to regulate interstate commerce.

Why was the central government under the Articles of Confederation considered weak?

• It could levy taxes directly on the people.

• It had too much power over the states.

• It could regulate trade between states.

• It had no power to enforce its requests for funding.

What was the primary purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

• To establish a strong central government.

• To form a league of friendship among sovereign states.

• To create a military alliance.

• To regulate international trade.

How did the Articles of Confederation describe the relationship among the states?

• As independent countries.

• As a centralized government.

• As a firm league of friendship.

• As a unified nation.

What was a limitation of the central government under the Articles of Confederation?

• It could regulate interstate commerce.

• It could enforce laws over the people.

• It could levy taxes directly.

• It had limited power over the states.

What was the central government's role in foreign affairs under the Articles of Confederation?

• It could declare war independently.

• It could create treaties with foreign nations.

• It had no role in foreign affairs.

• It could regulate international trade.