Which historical document established a loose union of states with a weak central government in the early United States?

Which historical document established a loose union of states with a weak central government in the early United States?

• A. The Articles of Confederation
• B. The Constitution
• C. The Bill of Rights
• D. Magna Carta

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how early American governance experimented with a loose union and limited federal authority. The document that fits this description is the one that created a “firm league of friendship” among states, with a national government that had few powers and no executive or national judiciary. This setup meant the central government couldn’t levy taxes, regulate trade between states, or compel states to follow its laws, so states held most of the power. It reflected a deliberate preference for state sovereignty after independence, but its weaknesses—especially in handling national needs—led to the push for a stronger framework and eventually the drafting of a new system. If you’re wondering about the other options: the Constitution established a stronger federal system with checks and balances; the Bill of Rights are amendments added to the Constitution to protect individual rights; Magna Carta is a medieval English charter and not a founding U.S. document.

The idea being tested is how early American governance experimented with a loose union and limited federal authority. The document that fits this description is the one that created a “firm league of friendship” among states, with a national government that had few powers and no executive or national judiciary. This setup meant the central government couldn’t levy taxes, regulate trade between states, or compel states to follow its laws, so states held most of the power. It reflected a deliberate preference for state sovereignty after independence, but its weaknesses—especially in handling national needs—led to the push for a stronger framework and eventually the drafting of a new system.

If you’re wondering about the other options: the Constitution established a stronger federal system with checks and balances; the Bill of Rights are amendments added to the Constitution to protect individual rights; Magna Carta is a medieval English charter and not a founding U.S. document.