Your eulogy must explain: 1. The Five Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation 2. The Claim to Fame of the Articles of Confederation 3. The Lasting Legacy of the Articles of Confederation

One major weakness of the Articles of Confederation was the lack of a strong central government. Each state operated like its own country, leading to inefficiency in governance and difficulty in forming a unified response, particularly during crises. Additionally, Congress lacked the power to tax and raise revenue, hampering its ability to address financial issues, ultimately resulting in economic instability. Furthermore, there was no executive branch or federal judiciary, causing confusion and inconsistency in law enforcement and interpretation. Lastly, significant changes required the approval of all thirteen states, making it almost impossible to amend the Articles effectively. Despite its weaknesses, the Articles of Confederation hold the distinction of being the first constitution of the United States. Adopted in 1781, it provided a framework for governance that served as a crucial stepping stone towards the Constitution we know today. Its very existence laid the groundwork for future debates on federalism and the allocation of powers between the national and state governments, igniting discussions that shaped America's constitutional evolution. The legacy of the Articles of Confederation is profound, as it highlights the challenges of governing a diverse nation with multiple interests. While often viewed as a failure, it taught the founders invaluable lessons about the need for a stronger central authority, ultimately leading to the drafting of the United States Constitution. This transition marked a pivotal turning point in American history, as it not only provided a more robust structure for the federal government but also established enduring principles that continue to influence democratic governance today.