Established rules

Definition

Established rules refer to the formal guidelines and principles set forth to govern behavior, processes, and interactions within a given system. In the context of governance, such rules were critical during the era of the Articles of Confederation, as they defined the limitations and powers of the national government while also outlining the responsibilities of individual states. These rules were essential in attempting to maintain order and unity among the states, even though they ultimately revealed significant weaknesses in the overall framework of governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Articles of Confederation were created to unify the thirteen states while preserving their independence, leading to a loose confederation that struggled with effective governance.
2. Under the Articles, established rules limited the powers of Congress, prohibiting it from levying taxes or regulating interstate commerce, leading to financial instability.
3. Each state had one vote regardless of size or population, which reflected an intention to promote equality but ultimately caused frustration among larger states.
4. Established rules also included the requirement for nine out of thirteen states to agree on major legislation, making it difficult to enact laws and respond effectively to national issues.
5. The weaknesses in the established rules under the Articles prompted calls for a stronger central government, eventually leading to the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

Review Questions

• How did the established rules within the Articles of Confederation reflect the priorities and concerns of the founding states?
  • The established rules in the Articles of Confederation reflected a strong emphasis on state sovereignty and fear of centralized power, stemming from experiences under British rule. This led to a framework that prioritized the independence of each state over a strong national government. As a result, while aiming for unity among the states, these rules limited Congress's authority, making it challenging to address collective problems effectively.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the established rules under the Articles of Confederation in addressing national issues during its tenure.
  • The established rules under the Articles of Confederation proved largely ineffective in managing national issues. The inability to impose taxes led to financial chaos, as Congress could not raise revenue for war debts or national expenses. Furthermore, without a mechanism to regulate trade between states, economic disputes arose, revealing significant flaws in cooperation among the states. This ineffective governance highlighted the necessity for reform.
• Assess how the limitations imposed by established rules under the Articles influenced the development of the U.S. Constitution.
  • The limitations imposed by established rules under the Articles directly influenced the drafting of the U.S. Constitution by demonstrating the need for a stronger federal structure. Delegates at the Constitutional Convention recognized that ineffective governance had led to economic turmoil and political instability. As a response, they crafted a new framework that included provisions for federal taxation, regulation of commerce, and a system of checks and balances designed to prevent any single entity from gaining excessive power. This shift marked a pivotal moment in American political development.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation:

The first governing document of the United States, adopted in 1781, which established a confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government.

Ratification:

The formal approval process required for the Articles of Confederation and other legislative acts, signifying consent from all thirteen states.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, like states, allowing for both national and local governance.