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The 1780s: Acritical Period For The United States

457 Words2 Pages

Dylan P. Clymer
Mrs. Barbara Jamison
American Government
22 August 2014
The 1780s was acritical period for the United States. After the revolution the second continental congress served as the government. Five years later on March 1, 1781 the Articles of Confederation were put into effect. The articles were weak and ultimately failed the American people. While the United States was governed by the Articles of Confederation it was in political and economic shambles. The Articles did failed in uniting the states. Washington said, “We are one nation today and thirteen tomorrow. Who will treat with us on such terms?” The Articles did not have the binding power that the US government has today, the colonies were not a tight knit group of united in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness, the Articles created a “firm league of friendship.” Each state was allowed to keep its sovereignty, rights, independence, rights, and etcetera. If each State is allowed to act as an individual and keep all of their freedom it is near impossible to expect thirteen self-serving states to unite under one government. …show more content…

The only way Congress could turn a profit was and pay off its war debt was to rely on borrowing money from the states, even though the articles remained in effect, the states failed to produce the funds needed by the congress to pay off the war debts. Furthermore trade and commerce could not be regulated by congress. In fact the only way for congress to do anything such as create new laws and impose taxes was to have nine out of thirteen states agree on the

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