Answer:
The Articles of Confederation, adopted in 1777, aimed to establish a league of friendship among the newly independent American states. While it granted certain powers to a central authority, such as conducting foreign affairs and maintaining an army, the overall structure created a weak central government. The absence of a strong executive, the inability to levy taxes directly, and the requirement for unanimous state consent for amendments hindered the effectiveness of the government. Consequently, the Articles fell short in providing a robust framework for a unified nation.
The weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation became evident in issues like economic instability, interstate disputes, and challenges in raising funds for essential services. The lack of a national judiciary and the absence of coercive power over the states undermined the ability to enforce laws and decisions. This period highlighted the necessity for a more centralized and empowered government, ultimately leading to the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and the drafting of the United States Constitution.