Final answer:
The U.S. Constitution provided for a strong central government in response to the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation. There was contention about the potential for government oppression, leading to a federal system of divided power and checks and balances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Constitution of the United States did indeed provide for a strong central government based in Washington D.C. This was a direct response to the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which had created a loose association of states without sufficient power at the federal level. Supporters of the Constitution argued that a robust central government was crucial for the defense, economic stability, and international standing of the new nation. They cited the need for a government capable of maintaining an army and navy, regulating commerce, imposing taxes, and paying debts as essential tools for establishing a strong and functional country.
However, there was significant opposition to a powerful central government, with many fearing it could become oppressive, similar to the authoritarian rule experienced under the British monarchy before the Revolution. The resulting U.S. Constitution sought a balance between the two factions, leading to a federal system where power is divided between the national government and the individual states. While the Constitution significantly increased the authority of the central government relative to the Articles of Confederation, it also implemented a system of checks and balances intended to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.