Unit 2, Lesson 2 8th Grade U.S. History 
 
The Articles of Confederation
Name: Demian Schatt Date: 10/3/17
 
Discussion and Debate Prep
 

Did the newly independent America create the type of government it was looking for with the 
Articles of Confederation​?   

Points For: Points Against:

 
1. - The Central government didn’t 
 
advocate for a good taxation system, 
1. + It provided a way for states to create a 
the central government was always 
lasting friendship. 
poor.  
2. + States were able to remain 
2. - it still had the same problems as the 
independent. “Each state retains its 
first and second continental congress 
sovereignty, freedom, and independence, 
3. - It was not a well written document, 
and every power, jurisdiction, and right, 
some parts were confusing. “Full faith 
which is not by this Confederation 
and credit shall be given in each of 
expressly delegated to the United States, 
these States to the records, acts, and 
in Congress assembled.” 
judicial proceedings of the courts and 
3. + Furthermore, they were still under the 
magistrates of every other state.” 
central government’s command. “ 
4. - Even though congress was the big 
4. + The United States was now protected 
leader, the system that they created 
and strengthened 
was not perfect and there were still 
 
many failures.  
 

Conclusion 

Yes or No? (And Why.) 

I think America did create the type of government it was looking for. Even though there
were many flaws, this was still the first step to getting what they wanted. This unified
states and the United States was now protected and strengthened and this would soon
become the constitution.
 
 

D. Nicoll  2017 Adapted from A. Niese