The Articles were designed to meet the requirements of the Revolutionary War, which they did. The states at that time were highly independent and wished to preserve for themselves more power in deciding state issues.
The Continental Congress created a weak federal government under the Articles of Confederation due to fears of tyranny and a desire to maintain state sovereignty. This resulted in a national government with limited powers that struggled to function effectively, highlighted by events like Shays' Rebellion. These weaknesses underscored the urgent need for a stronger central authority, leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
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