Congress's lack of power

Definition

Congress's lack of power refers to the limited authority granted to the national government under the Articles of Confederation, particularly in regards to regulating commerce among the states. This restriction hindered effective governance and led to economic issues.

Related terms

Commerce Clause: The Commerce Clause is a provision in the United States Constitution that grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states. It was included as a direct response to the limitations experienced under the Articles.

Interstate Commerce: Interstate commerce refers to trade and economic activity that occurs between different states. Due to Congress's lack of power, there were no unified regulations or standards for interstate commerce under the Articles.

Economic Disunity: Economic disunity describes a state of fragmentation and lack of cohesion in terms of trade and economy. The absence of congressional regulation resulted in economic disunity among the states under the Articles, leading to challenges such as tariffs and barriers to trade.