The Articles of Confederation provided the newly declared republic with a means of governing during and immediately after the revolution. The correct option in regards to the given question is option "a". The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States of America. It was an agreement that was made by all the original 13 states of United States of America. The drafting of the articles of Confederation started on 12th July in the year 1776 and the draft was send for ratification in the year 1777. The ratification work was completed by the original 13 states during the year 1781.