The Articles of Confederation had several significant weaknesses that hindered the effective governance of the United States:

• Weak Central Government: The Articles created a loose confederation where most power remained with the states, leaving the national government weak and unable to enforce laws or compel state compliance

• No Power to Tax: Congress could not levy taxes and had to rely on voluntary contributions from states, which were often insufficient. This left the national government chronically underfunded, unable to pay debts or finance operations

• Inability to Regulate Commerce: The national government lacked authority to regulate interstate and foreign trade, allowing states to enact conflicting trade policies that weakened the country’s economic position

• No National Currency: Without a unified currency, states issued their own money, leading to economic confusion and instability

• Military Limitations: Congress could declare war but could not raise or maintain a standing army or navy, relying on states to provide troops. This made national defense ineffective, as states could refuse to send soldiers

• Legislative Inefficiencies: Each state had one vote regardless of size, creating disproportionate influence for smaller states. Passing laws required approval from nine of thirteen states, and amending the Articles required unanimous consent, making changes nearly impossible

• No Executive or Judicial Branch: There was no national executive to enforce laws or judiciary to resolve disputes between states, leading to ineffective governance and conflict resolution

• Foreign Policy Weaknesses: The weak central government struggled to conduct effective foreign relations, negotiate treaties, or protect American interests abroad, such as dealing with piracy and territorial disputes

These weaknesses collectively demonstrated the need for a stronger federal government, eventually leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution