Tax Tales

Worksheet Description

The worksheet addresses the significant challenges of taxation under the Articles of Confederation in the formative years of the United States. It details the limitations of the Articles, which, influenced by the aversion to the British monarchy’s heavy taxes, granted only minimal tax authority to the central government, making it reliant on states’ voluntary contributions. This system led to financial instability as states either could not or would not contribute enough, hindering the federal government’s ability to repay debts, raise a military, or function effectively. The content also touches on the inequalities and tensions caused by the lack of a standardized tax system across the states.

This teaching tool is designed to impart to students the fiscal realities and struggles of the early American government. It underscores the difficulties faced by a newly independent nation in funding its operations and meeting its obligations without a strong centralized taxing authority. Students will learn about the interplay between federal and state powers regarding taxation and the resulting economic disparities that emerged. Ultimately, it aims to provide insight into why these challenges contributed to the creation of a more empowered federal government with the United States Constitution.