Why were the Articles of Confederation adopted and for what purpose? To what extent were the Articles an effective form of government for the colonies/new nation?
The Articles were adopted as the first "constitution" of America. It linked the 13 states together for joint action in dealing with common problems. However, the Articles were very weak and provided only a "firm league of friendship." Congress had no power to regulate commerce, and had to ask the colonies if they could donate money. The government could not command or act directly on the individual states and citizens, and it could not even "protect itself from gross indignities." Even though the Articles of Confederation had many defects and flaws, it was a significant stepping stone to the present constitution. It kept the states together and outlined powers exercised by the government. It was a landmark, in those days, and was a model of what a confederation ought to be.
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