Question

The first governing document of the United States was the

a. Constitutional Convention.
b. Articles of Confederation.
c. Continental Congress.
d. Virginia Plan.

Answer 1

The first governing document of the United States was the Articles of Confederation. Though it established a national government, it had significant limitations that led to its eventual replacement by the U.S. Constitution after the Constitutional Convention of 1787.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first governing document of the United States was the Articles of Confederation. Drafted in 1777 and adopted in 1781, the Articles of Confederation served as the nation's first constitution, establishing a confederation of sovereign states and a government that was superior to these states but dependent on their consent for any power.

Described as a 'firm league of friendship,' the Articles of Confederation reflected a wariness of central authority, a sentiment shaped by the recent struggle with Britain. This initial constitution allowed the Confederation Congress to pass laws but did not grant the power to enforce them due to the absence of an executive or judicial branch. It could request funds and troops from the states but lacked the ability to tax or draft.

These limitations ultimately exposed the weaknesses of the Articles, prompting states' delegates to convene at the Constitutional Convention in 1787. This gathering resulted in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which established a stronger federal government and replaced the Articles of Confederation when adopted in 1789.

Answer 2

This was the first governing document of the United States of America. It was adopted by the Second Continental Congress in November 1777 and ratified by the states in 1781. The Articles of Confederation contain thirteen articles and a conclusion.