Here is a list of the strengths and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Place them where they go on your T-Chart:

• Established the first national government framework after independence.

• Ensured that states retained significant independence and self-rule.

• States imposed tariffs on each other, creating economic conflicts.

• Federal Government lacked authority to enforce laws or unify states effectively.

• Gave the central government the power to manage military affairs and foreign relations.

• The national government relied on state donations, leading to financial instability.

• Each state had its own currency, complicating trade and economic stability.

• Treaty of Paris successfully negotiated peace with Britain, securing U.S. independence.

• Northwest Ordinance (1787) established a process for admitting new states and prohibited slavery in new territories.

• There was no president or national leader to enforce laws.

• The government could sign treaties and form alliances.

• No federal courts to resolve disputes between states.

• Any changes to the Articles needed approval from all 13 states, making reforms nearly impossible.

• States had to work together to make decisions, promoting some unity.

• Avoided a strong central government that could become oppressive.

• Could not regulate trade or force citizens to join the army during war 

While the Articles of Confederation helped the U.S. transition from British rule, its weaknesses led to the creation of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, which established a stronger federal government.