Final answer:
The national government under the Articles of Confederation had the right to pass legislation, among others, but couldn't collect taxes or enforce laws directly.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the Articles of Confederation, the national government known as the Confederation Congress had several important powers, albeit much more limited than those of the later U.S. Congress under the Constitution. One key power given to the national government was the right to pass legislation. The Congress had the authority to make war and peace, send and receive ambassadors, enter into treaties and alliances, regulate Indian affairs, and manage a post office. However, it notably lacked the powers to collect taxes, enforce laws directly, and regulate commerce among the states.