* A Weak Central Government: The Articles created a unicameral (one-house) legislature, the Continental Congress, with each state receiving one vote regardless of its population. There was no executive or judicial branch. This structure made it difficult to pass legislation and enforce laws effectively.
* Limited Powers of Congress: The central government had limited powers. It could declare war, make treaties, and coin money, but it lacked the power to tax directly, regulate interstate commerce, or enforce its laws effectively. It relied heavily on voluntary contributions from the states for funding, which proved unreliable.
* State Sovereignty: The Articles emphasized the sovereignty of individual states, giving them significant autonomy. States retained control over their own affairs, including taxation, trade, and military forces. This led to conflicts between states and hindered national unity.
* Lack of a National Currency and Uniform Economic Policy: The absence of a national currency and a consistent economic policy contributed to economic instability. Different states had different currencies and trade regulations, leading to disputes and hindering economic growth.
* Difficulty Amending the Articles: Amending the Articles required unanimous consent from all thirteen states, making it nearly impossible to make necessary changes. This rigidity hampered the government's ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
* No National Judiciary: The absence of a national court system meant there was no mechanism for resolving disputes between states or enforcing federal laws.
The Articles of Confederation's weaknesses ultimately led to its failure. Its inability to address critical national issues like interstate commerce and economic instability, coupled with its weak central government, prompted the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which led to the drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution.