Problems at Home:
Economic Issues - The Articles of Confederation lacked the power to levy taxes, leading to financial instability and unpaid debts.
Inconsistent Trade Regulations - Each state had its own trade rules, hindering interstate commerce and causing economic friction.
Problems with Spain:
Border Disputes - The western boundary of the United States was in dispute with Spanish-held territories, creating tensions and potential conflicts.
Navigation of the Mississippi - The U.S. had limited access to the Mississippi River, which was vital for trade and economic growth.
Problems with the British:
Unresolved War Debts - After the Revolutionary War, the U.S. owed significant debts to foreign nations, including Britain, which strained diplomatic relations.
British Occupation of Western Posts - Britain refused to evacuate forts in the Old Northwest, despite treaty obligations, and this further destabilized the region.
Shays' Rebellion:
Economic Hardships - Farmers in Massachusetts faced financial distress, including high taxes and foreclosures on their properties.
Weak Central Authority - The inability of the national government under the Articles of Confederation to suppress the rebellion highlighted the weaknesses in governance.
The limitations of the government under the Articles of Confederation included a lack of authority to enforce laws, raise revenue, or regulate trade. The absence of a strong central authority and the requirement for unanimous state consent to make changes hindered the government's ability to address these pressing issues effectively. This led to the eventual call for a Constitutional Convention to create a more robust federal government, resulting in the U.S. Constitution.