Strengths and Weaknesses of the AoC - Congress consisted

Colorado Technical University Online Strengths and Weaknesses of the AoC Worksheet

Strengths and Weaknesses of the AoC

Directions: Arrange the following powers in the Articles of Confederation in the “T-chart” and give an explanation why each could be beneficial or weaken the newly formed government ruling over 60,000 people.

1. Congress consisted of one house, presided over by a president elected each year by the members from among their own number but there was no Chief Executive (President).

2. Each state retained all powers not expressly delegated to Congress.

3. Delegates to Congress were to be appointed by local state legislatures.

 4. States would not be deprived of western lands established through the Northwestern Ordinance, unlike times during British rule.

5. Every state would tax itself to help to contribute to the common expenses of the nation but Congress could not collect taxes from the States.

6. The Articles of Confederation established a "firm league of friendship" between the 13 states but could not enforce those treaties.

7. There was no National Court System so there was no court or judge to settle disputed points of law.

8. There was no National Currency but Congress could still borrow money. Each state used its own paper money.

 9. Congress had the powers to establish a Navy and Army under the Continental Army. Congress had the powers to declare war but Congress could not draft soldiers and had no one officer to carry out the laws.

10. Congress had the powers to organize a Post Office.

11. Congress could not control commerce between states. States could put different tariffs on different neighboring states.

12. Once assembled on the floor of Congress, the delegates became members of a secret body and the doors were shut. No spectators were allowed to hear what was said. No reports of the debates were taken down.

13. All voting was done by states, each casting just 1 vote, no matter how many legislators/delegates, population and land it had.

14. The affirmative votes of 9 states were necessary to pass any important act, or, as it was called, "ordinance." Unless the amendments were changed which required unanimous (everyone) agreement.

15. The Articles of Confederation gave Congress the power to deal with foreign affairs with the authority to declare war and make peace, alliances and sign treaties with foreign countries and Native Americans.