Which document became the first frame of government for the United States in 1781?

The Articles of Confederation became the first frame of government for the United States in 1781.

The Second Continental Congress debated the Articles from 1776 to 1777. Congress approved the final text on November 15, 1777, but the document required ratification by all thirteen states. Maryland’s eventual approval allowed the Articles to take effect on March 1, 1781.

The Articles created a confederation that preserved substantial sovereignty for the states. Congress could conduct diplomacy, manage war affairs, and handle western territories, but it lacked several powers associated with the later federal government, including broad taxation and direct regulation of interstate commerce.

The system remained in place until March 4, 1789, when the Constitution replaced it. The Constitution created a stronger federal structure with an executive branch, national courts, and expanded congressional powers.