![]() The states feared another George III might threaten their liberties. The Articles of Confederation did not include a president. There was no provision for national courts. ![]() In addition, Congress could not draft soldiers or regulate trade. Congress could raise money only by asking the states for funds, borrowing from foreign governments, or selling western lands. ![]() Under the Articles, the states, not Congress, had the power to tax. All states were represented equally in Congress, and nine of the 13 states had to approve a bill before it became law. The Articles of Confederation created a national government composed of a Congress, which had the power to declare war, appoint military officers, sign treaties, make alliances, appoint foreign ambassadors, and manage relations with Indians. Article 2 stated that "each State retains its sovereignty, freedom and independence, and every power.which is not.expressly delegated to the United States.…" Any amendment required unanimous consent of the states. The Articles represented a victory for those who favored state sovereignty. Proposed by the Continental Congress in 1777, it was not ratified until 1781. The Articles of Confederation was the United States' first constitution. Printable Version Articles of Confederation
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