Final answer:
The purpose of the Annapolis Convention was to 1) discuss trade issues among states. Due to low attendance, it didn't accomplish substantive results, but it set the stage for the Constitutional Convention that would lead to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Purpose of the Annapolis Convention
The Annapolis Convention, held in 1786, was primarily organized to discuss the trade problems that plagued the nascent United States under the Articles of Confederation. Despite the invitation extended to all thirteen states, attendance was poor, with only five states ultimately sending delegates. This limited turnout hindered the convention's ability to achieve substantive results. Nonetheless, the discussions that took place laid the groundwork for a future meeting, as the delegates recognized the need for more radical changes to the Articles of Confederation. This culminated in Alexander Hamilton's proposal for another convention to be held in Philadelphia in 1787, which eventually led to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. Overall, the Annapolis meeting was pivotal as a precursor to the Constitutional Convention, highlighting the urgency to remedy the weak central government and create a more effective system of governance.