What was the first Constitution of the United States?

The first Constitution of the United States was the Articles of Confederation, which was adopted by the Continental Congress in 1781. This document established a system of government that emphasized state sovereignty and limited federal authority. It created a unicameral legislature where each state had equal representation, but it lacked the power to tax, regulate trade, or enforce laws, which ultimately led to significant weaknesses in governance and the inability to address economic and diplomatic challenges effectively.

This foundation set the stage for the drafting of a new Constitution in 1787, which would create a stronger federal government and address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation. The U.S. Constitution, which emerged from this process, replaced the Articles and provided a more robust framework for the federal government, including a system of checks and balances and a clearer delineation of powers. Understanding the significance of the Articles of Confederation is crucial for appreciating the evolution of American governance and the eventual adoption of the current U.S. Constitution.