Final answer:
The Articles of Confederation failed as a plan of government due to weaknesses and lack of effectiveness. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Articles of Confederation failed as a plan of government due to its inherent weaknesses and inability to effectively govern the new nation. One of the main weaknesses was that the central government was too weak to enforce laws and collect taxes, leading to financial instability and economic problems. Additionally, the Articles did not establish a strong executive branch or a national court system, which hindered the government's ability to make decisions and enforce the law.
The states purposely created the Articles of Confederation because they were wary of creating a strong central government that could potentially become tyrannical, like the British monarchy they had just fought against. They wanted to protect the sovereignty of the states and maintain a balance of power. The Articles provided a loose alliance of sovereign states, where each state retained its independence while cooperating on certain matters like defense and foreign affairs.
Specific examples of the Articles of Confederation's failure include the inability to regulate trade between states, resulting in economic disputes and barriers to interstate commerce. The government also faced difficulties in paying off debts incurred during the Revolutionary War, leading to financial instability. Additionally, Shays' Rebellion in Massachusetts highlighted the weaknesses of the central government and the need for a stronger system of governance.
The correct option is 1.