GED Social Studies · U.S. History & Government
The Articles of Confederation — America's First Government
Informational Passage · Articles of Confederation (1781–1787)
In 1781, the 13 former British American colonies established a common government when they ratified the Articles of Confederation. The document established a "firm league of friendship" between the states and reserved the greatest share of political authority to the individual states. The new confederation had only one branch, which was made up of a one-house legislature in which the states were equally represented. Among other powers, the new government had the power to conduct foreign affairs for the 13 independent states. It had the power to make war and peace and to negotiate treaties with foreign countries. It could also settle disputes between the states, including disputes over western territories. Each of the states retained their "sovereignty, freedom and independence." Under the Articles, Congress could not collect taxes, regulate trade between states, or enforce laws. The confederation was replaced in 1787 by the government created by the U.S. Constitution.
| ✓ Congress COULD | ✗ Congress COULD NOT |
|---|---|
| Conduct foreign affairs | Collect taxes |
| Make war and peace | Regulate trade between states |
| Negotiate treaties | Enforce laws |
| Settle disputes between states | Override state sovereignty |
Confederation
A political union where member states retain significant independence and the central government has limited, delegated powers.
Sovereignty
The supreme authority of a government to rule itself without outside control. Under the Articles, states kept their own sovereignty.
Ratification
The formal process of approving and adopting a law or agreement. The Articles were ratified (approved) by all 13 states in 1781.
Legislature
The branch of government that makes laws. Under the Articles, a one-house legislature was the only branch of the national government.