Question

The framers of the Constitution devised a federal system of government that affected the relationship between the national and state governments. Which of the following describes state sovereignty under the Articles of Confederation?

a) Weak and predominant
b) Strong and centralized
c) Nonexistent
d) Balanced and shared

Answer 1

Under the Articles of Confederation, state sovereignty was strong and predominant, resulting in a weak central government. This decentralized system hindered effective national governance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Under the Articles of Confederation, state sovereignty was strong and predominant. The framers of the Constitution intentionally designed a weak central government that was subordinate to the states. This decentralized system meant that the national government lacked authority and struggled to address issues such as servicing the war debt, resolving commercial disputes among states, and negotiating trade agreements. The Articles of Confederation's emphasis on state sovereignty ultimately proved to be a drawback, as it hindered effective national governance.