HIST 103 Chapter 7: Chapter 7 Notes (1783-1791)
Document Summary
Drafted by congress in 1777 and ratified by states four years later. Sought to balance the need for national coordination of the war of independence with widespread fear that centralized political power posed a danger to liberty. The 13 states retained their individual sovereignty, freedom, and independence . No president to enforce the laws and no judiciary to interpret them. Major decisions required the approval of nine states rather than a simple majority. The only powers specifically granted to the national government were declaring war, conducting foreign affairs, and making treaties with other governments. It could coin money but lacked the power to levy taxes or regulate commerce. Revenue came mainly from contributions by the individual states. To amend the article required the unanimous consent of the states. Establishing national control over land to the west of the 13 states and devising rules for its settlement. Va, the carolinas, and ct claimed immense tracts of western land.
