Final answer:
The Articles of Confederation established a weak federal government, with most power reserved to the states. The Constitution was created to address this imbalance, instituting a stronger federal government with a president, federal courts, and more defined congressional powers, while still recognizing state rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
Articles of Confederation vs. U.S. Constitution
Under the Articles of Confederation, the federal government was notably weaker compared to the states. This system was essentially a confederation where states held sovereignty and the national government could only do what states consented to. Faced with challenges like war debt, interstate commerce disputes, and the inability to effectively govern collectively, it became apparent that a more robust central government was necessary.
The Constitution introduced a series of changes to strengthen the role of the federal government. It established a president to oversee both domestic and foreign policy, a system of federal courts to resolve disputes, and various powers for Congress, such as taxation and regulation of interstate commerce. These changes helped create a balance between the rights of states and the powers of the federal government, aiming for a 'more perfect union' as stated in the Constitution's preamble.
Notably, the shift from a confederation to a federal system of government during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 was a pivotal moment. Delegates crafted a new framework that not only reinforced the federal government’s authority but also maintained a balance of power, ensuring that states preserved their respective rights while part of a stronger union.