Question

which of the following descriptions of the articles of confederation is accurate?

select an answer

a. the articles of confederation established a president but no congress due to the founders fear of a strong legislative branch.
b. the articles of confederation granted virtually no power to the states.
c. the colonists established a strong national government in the articles of confederation that would enable taxation to pay off war debt.
d. the colonists established a weak central government in the articles of confederation, reflecting their fear that a strong government would infringe upon individual liberty.

Explanation:

Analyze the historical context of the Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States, drafted during the Revolutionary War. Having just escaped British monarchical rule, the colonists deeply feared a strong central authority that could infringe upon individual liberties and state sovereignty.

Evaluate the given options

• A is incorrect: The Articles established a unicameral Congress but did not establish an independent executive branch (president) or a national court system.
• B is incorrect: The Articles left sovereignty and almost all significant powers to the individual states, not the central government.
• C is incorrect: The national government under the Articles was weak and lacked the power to levy taxes directly, making it extremely difficult to pay off war debts.
• D is correct: The colonists intentionally created a weak central government to prevent tyranny and protect individual and state liberties.

Answer:

• A. The Articles of Confederation established a president but no Congress due to the Founders' fear of a strong legislative branch.
• B. The Articles of Confederation granted virtually no power to the states.
• C. The colonists established a strong national government in the Articles of Confederation that would enable taxation to pay off war debt.
• D. The colonists established a weak central government in the Articles of Confederation, reflecting their fear that a strong government would infringe upon individual liberty. (Correct answer)