Final answer:
The Continental Congress drafted the first U.S. constitution, called the Articles of Confederation, in 1777, which was later adopted by the states in 1781. This document served as the initial attempt at unifying the states under a national government during the American Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Drafting of the United States Constitution
The Continental Congress drafted the first constitution of the United States during the American Revolution. The process began with the concerns that arose about the need for a formal national government. In 1777, the Congress appointed a committee to create a constitution that would unify the states more effectively during and after the fight for independence. This constitution was named the Articles of Confederation and was drafted to establish a 'firm league of friendship' among the states. However, it vested little power in the central government, which could not enforce laws, impose taxes, or draft troops. Adoption of the Articles by the states was completed in 1781, but due to their weaknesses, the document served only as a stepping stone to the drafting of the current U.S. Constitution in 1787.
Learn more about Articles of Confederation