The Articles of Confederation took effect on March 1, 1781, providing an early national framework relevant to America250.
The Articles were the first written constitution of the United States. The Continental Congress approved them in 1777, but they did not become operative until all thirteen states ratified them. Maryland’s ratification completed that process in 1781.
Under the Articles, the states retained substantial sovereignty and the national government had limited powers. Congress could conduct diplomacy, declare war, and manage western territories, but it could not impose taxes directly or regulate interstate commerce effectively.
The Articles remained in force until the Constitution replaced them in 1789. They are distinct from the Declaration of Independence, which announced separation from Britain, and from the Constitution, which created the current federal system.