Final answer:
The U.S. Constitution enhanced the federal government's power compared to the Articles of Confederation, allowing for effective legislation, taxation, and national defense while maintaining a balance with states' rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The U.S. Constitution addressed the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation by establishing a stronger federal government with the ability to operate effectively and cohesively. Under the Articles, the federal government was too weak to enforce laws or levy taxes, leading to a fractured nation that seemed like thirteen separate countries. The Constitutional Convention of 1787 answered the call for a more robust national framework by enabling the federal government to exercise powers directly over the states in certain spheres, such as taxation, military defense, and interstate commerce. The Constitution also included the vital capability to be amended, allowing for adaptability over time. This new balance of power created a more resilient and united nation, moving towards a “more perfect union” as framed in the Constitution's preamble. The power division between state and federal authorities, along with the system of checks and balances, established America as a stronger country compared to the loosely connected confederation.