Final Answer:
Washington warned that if the Articles of Confederation were not amended or abandoned, the nation could face disunion, internal strife, and vulnerability to external threats.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the period of the Articles of Confederation, the weaknesses of the central government became increasingly apparent. In his correspondence and speeches, George Washington expressed deep concerns about the nation's future if the Articles were not revised or replaced. One dire prediction was the potential for disunion among the states, as the weak central authority struggled to maintain cohesion among the diverse and independently-minded states.
Washington also foresaw the risk of internal strife and conflicts. The lack of a strong central government under the Articles led to economic struggles, interstate disputes, and challenges in maintaining order. The absence of a robust federal authority to resolve disputes or enforce laws contributed to the potential for internal discord, hindering the stability and progress of the fledgling nation.
Furthermore, Washington highlighted the vulnerability to external threats. Without a unified military and a centralized defense apparatus, the nation was exposed to the risk of foreign intervention or aggression. Washington's warnings about the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation played a significant role in shaping the discussions that ultimately led to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where the United States Constitution was drafted to address these deficiencies and establish a more effective and enduring federal system.