What document served as the first governing charter of the United States from 1781 until the Constitution took effect?

The Articles of Confederation served as the first governing charter of the United States from 1781 until the Constitution took effect.

The Continental Congress approved the Articles in 1777, but all 13 states had to ratify them before they became operative. Maryland's ratification on March 1, 1781, completed that process. The Articles created a “firm league of friendship” among the states and gave Congress authority over war, diplomacy, and western lands.

Their national government was deliberately weak. Congress could not directly tax individuals, regulate interstate commerce, or enforce many decisions. Each state had one vote, regardless of population, and major measures often required the approval of nine states.

Financial problems, trade disputes, and unrest such as Shays's Rebellion encouraged leaders to seek a stronger framework. The Constitutional Convention met in 1787 and produced a new Constitution. The Articles remained in force until the new government began in March 1789.