Fissures of Federation

Worksheet Description

This worksheet explores the early stages of American governance under the Articles of Confederation, focusing on its critical weaknesses. It explains how the Articles served as a crucial but flawed stepping stone towards a more unified national government. Key issues such as the lack of enforcement power for the central government, difficulties in regulating commerce between states, and the absence of a national currency are highlighted. The worksheet underscores the resultant economic disarray and legislative impotence that marked this period.

The purpose of this worksheet is to teach students about the structural deficiencies of the Articles of Confederation. It imparts knowledge on the importance of a strong central government in managing a nation’s economy and laws. Students learn why these weaknesses in the Articles led to economic strife and legislative challenges, which made governing the new nation difficult. The worksheet also aims to show how these challenges were foundational in the eventual creation and adoption of the United States Constitution.