Lingering Problem

Definition

A lingering problem refers to unresolved issues that continue to affect the effectiveness and stability of a system or institution. In the context of the Articles of Confederation, lingering problems highlighted the weaknesses of the federal government, including its inability to address economic instability, interstate conflicts, and lack of centralized authority, leading to calls for reform and ultimately the creation of the Constitution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. One major lingering problem under the Articles was the inability to levy taxes, leading to financial struggles for the federal government.
2. States often acted independently, creating trade disputes and tensions that highlighted the lack of a unified national policy.
3. The inability to regulate interstate commerce further exacerbated economic problems and contributed to the unrest among citizens.
4. The lack of an executive branch meant there was no effective way to enforce laws or treaties, leading to further instability.
5. These lingering issues ultimately drove leaders to convene at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 to create a stronger federal government.

Review Questions

• How did the lingering problems under the Articles of Confederation lead to calls for a stronger central government?
  • The lingering problems under the Articles of Confederation, such as financial instability and interstate conflicts, demonstrated the weaknesses of a decentralized government. The inability to levy taxes and regulate commerce led to economic chaos and unrest, prompting leaders to recognize that a stronger central authority was necessary. This realization resulted in the Constitutional Convention where delegates sought to address these issues by creating a more robust federal system.
• Evaluate how Shays' Rebellion exemplified the lingering problems of the Articles of Confederation.
  • Shays' Rebellion was a significant event that showcased the lingering problems under the Articles of Confederation. It arose from economic hardships faced by farmers who were unable to pay debts and taxes, highlighting the government's impotence in addressing citizens' grievances. The rebellion not only exposed the weaknesses in enforcement but also intensified fears among leaders about civil unrest and disorder, further pushing them toward reforming the national government.
• Assess the long-term implications of the lingering problems associated with the Articles of Confederation on American governance.
  • The long-term implications of the lingering problems associated with the Articles of Confederation significantly shaped American governance by leading to the establishment of a more effective federal structure. The recognition that a weak central government could not manage economic challenges or maintain order led directly to the creation of the Constitution. This shift allowed for a balance between state and federal powers through federalism, establishing mechanisms for taxation, commerce regulation, and law enforcement that are fundamental to U.S. governance today.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation:

The first governing document of the United States, which established a confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government.

Shays' Rebellion:

An armed uprising in 1786-1787 led by Daniel Shays in response to economic difficulties and government injustices, illustrating the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, which was established to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.