What was the main purpose of the Constitution as compared to the Articles of Confederation?

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Study for the South Carolina US History EOC Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The main purpose of the Constitution, especially in contrast to the Articles of Confederation, was to create a stronger central government. Under the Articles of Confederation, the national government was relatively weak, with limited authority over states. This lack of centralized power made it difficult to manage issues such as taxation, trade regulation, and defense.

The Constitution aimed to address these weaknesses by establishing a federal system with a stronger national government that had the ability to enforce laws, collect taxes, raise an army, and regulate commerce between states. This shift was essential for fostering a more unified nation capable of responding effectively to internal and external challenges.

While the Constitution also included provisions for limiting government powers through mechanisms like checks and balances, the primary intent was to bolster the authority of the federal government to ensure stability and governance. The inclusion of a Bill of Rights, although crucial for protecting individual liberties, was not the primary focus at the outset; rather, it emerged in response to concerns about the potential for government overreach. Establishing a monarchy was not an objective of the Constitution, as the framers sought to create a republic that distributed power among different branches of government. Thus, the framing of the Constitution represented a clear move toward enhancing the strength and capability of the national

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