How was the first national government organized under the Articles of Confederation?

Answer 1

The first national government under the Articles of Confederation, established in 1781, was a loose confederation of states with a unicameral legislature known as the Continental Congress. Each state had one vote, regardless of size or population, and major decisions required the approval of nine out of thirteen states. The government lacked a separate executive branch and federal judiciary, leading to significant limitations in its ability to enforce laws, collect taxes, or regulate commerce. This structure ultimately proved ineffective, prompting calls for a stronger federal government and the eventual drafting of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.