Major Limitation

Definition

A major limitation refers to a significant restriction or drawback that hinders the effectiveness or functionality of a system or document. In the context of early American governance, this term highlights the fundamental weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which was the first constitution of the United States. The major limitations of this document contributed to various challenges, including inadequate federal authority, lack of a standing army, and inability to impose taxes, ultimately leading to calls for a stronger central government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Articles of Confederation created a national government that lacked the power to levy taxes, making it difficult for the government to raise revenue.
2. Each state had one vote in Congress regardless of size, which led to unequal representation and frustration among larger states.
3. There was no executive branch under the Articles, meaning there was no single leader to enforce laws or unify the national government.
4. Amending the Articles required unanimous consent from all thirteen states, which made it nearly impossible to correct any major limitations.
5. The inability to regulate interstate commerce created economic difficulties and conflicts between states over trade practices.

Review Questions

• How did the major limitations of the Articles of Confederation impact the ability of the federal government to address national issues?
  • The major limitations of the Articles of Confederation severely restricted the federal government's ability to tackle national issues. With no power to levy taxes, the government struggled to pay debts or fund operations. Additionally, lacking an executive branch meant there was no leader to coordinate responses to crises or enforce laws. This inability to manage key areas like commerce and defense led many leaders to realize that a stronger central government was necessary.
• Analyze how Shay's Rebellion exemplified the major limitations of the Articles of Confederation and its effects on public perception.
  • Shay's Rebellion highlighted the major limitations of the Articles of Confederation by showcasing the government's inability to maintain order and respond effectively to civil unrest. The uprising against economic injustices revealed that state militias could not quell such disturbances without a strong federal army. This event shocked many leaders and citizens, leading to increased calls for reform and a more powerful national government capable of addressing such threats.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the major limitations found in the Articles of Confederation on the development of the U.S. Constitution.
  • The major limitations identified in the Articles of Confederation had profound long-term implications for American governance. The weaknesses exposed by these limitations fostered a sense of urgency among leaders to create a new framework for government, resulting in the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The eventual adoption of the U.S. Constitution addressed these deficiencies by establishing a stronger federal structure with an executive branch, clearer powers for taxation, and a flexible amendment process. This transformation laid the foundation for modern American democracy and influenced future governance principles worldwide.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation:

The first constitution of the United States, established a weak federal government and gave most powers to the states.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states.

Shay's Rebellion:

An armed uprising in 1786-1787 led by farmers in Massachusetts protesting economic injustices and highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.