Final answer:
During the formation of the United States, there was a need for a strong central government to defend the nation, maintain the economy, and establish sovereignty. The weak central government under the Articles of Confederation led to economic problems and the need for a stronger government, which was addressed through the creation of the Constitution. The central government has powers to regulate trade, maintain an army, and repay debts, among other functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of the federal government and the necessity of a strong central government were important issues during the formation of the United States. Supporters of a strong central government argued that it was necessary for the survival and efficient functioning of the nation. Without a strong central government, the nation would struggle to defend itself, maintain its economy, and establish itself as a sovereign power.
Under the Articles of Confederation, the central government was weak and had limited powers, which led to economic problems and difficulties in governing the states. As a result, the need for a stronger central government became evident, leading to the creation of the United States Constitution. The Constitution established a federal form of government that balanced power between the national government and the state governments, allowing for a strong and cohesive central government while still protecting the rights of the states.
The central government has the authority to maintain an army and navy, regulate trade and taxes, create infrastructure for commerce, maintain foreign relations, and repay debts. These powers were necessary to ensure the nation's defense, economic stability, and international standing. The new federal form of government was designed to provide checks and balances between the three branches of government, ensuring that no single branch or government entity holds too much power.