This is an essay analyzing the Articles of Confederation as a first draft for the Constitution.

The Articles of Confederation are considered by some a good first draft for the Constitution. On the other hand, other historians consider them to be full of weaknesses and shortcomings. However, there is evidence to support both points of view on the Articles. There are many points in the Articles that are also used in the Constitution. The legislative branch remained intact and retained the powers to declare war, maintain an army and a navy …

…foreign policy, they would not have been fixed or provided for in the constitution. The Articles proved to Americans the necessity of a strong federal government that still delegates some power to the states. With all its shortcomings, it did govern the U.S. for a short time without any huge disasters befalling the country. While not a good document in the long run, it was an excellent learning experience and a great short-term plan.