What power was lacking in Congress under the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles of Confederation established a framework for the newly independent United States but had significant limitations. One of the most critical powers that was missing under the Articles was the authority to tax. Without this power, Congress could not effectively generate revenue to support its operations or fund initiatives, including the maintenance of a national defense or paying off debts incurred during the Revolutionary War.

The inability to levy taxes meant that the federal government relied heavily on contributions from the states, which were often inconsistent and insufficient. This lack of financial power hampered the government’s effectiveness, leading to difficulties in governance and ultimately contributing to the decision to draft a new constitution. Taxation is a fundamental function of government, necessary for sustaining national priorities, infrastructure, and public services, making this limitation particularly impactful in the context of the Articles of Confederation.