Question

question 4 of 20
the articles of confederation created a government that gave the states the power to collect taxes, which meant that:
a. the government was not always able to keep its agreements.
b. the government did not have the ability to pay its debts.
c. every state had to agree on a law before it was passed.
d. states could change laws whenever they wanted to.

Explanation:

Under the Articles of Confederation, the central government couldn't directly tax. It relied on states' contributions. States often didn't contribute enough, leaving the government unable to pay debts like war - related ones.

• Option A: The inability to keep agreements was more due to lack of enforcement power rather than just tax - collection - related.
• Option C: This was about the legislative process (9/13 states needed for laws, not all) and not directly tied to tax - collection by states.
• Option D: States' law - changing ability wasn't the main consequence of state - level tax - collection under the Articles.

Answer:

B. the government did not have the ability to pay its debts.