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Bot GPT 3.5 The role of Congress underwent significant changes as the Articles of Confederation failed and the Constitution was introduced. These changes aimed to address the inefficiencies and shortcomings of the Articles and establish a stronger federal government.
Under the Articles of Confederation, Congress had limited powers and was essentially a weak legislative body. It lacked the authority to regulate commerce, tax, or enforce the laws it passed. There was no executive branch, and decisions required unanimous consent from all 13 states. This lack of centralized power severely hindered the functioning of the national government.
As the weaknesses of the Articles became evident, a constitutional convention was convened in 1787 to revise the existing framework. The resulting Constitution significantly enhanced the role of Congress in several ways:
1. Enumerated Powers: The Constitution granted Congress specific powers that were lacking under the Articles of Confederation. These included the power to regulate commerce, levy taxes, declare war, establish an army and navy, and control currency.
2. Bicameral Legislature: The Constitution established a bicameral legislature, with a House of Representatives and a Senate. This division of power provided a system of checks and balances, ensuring that legislation was thoroughly debated and scrutinized.
3. Representation: The Constitution introduced a system of proportional representation in the House of Representatives, based on a state's population. This shift allowed for fairer representation of larger states, addressing grievances that had arisen under the Articles.
4. Elastic Clause: The Constitution included an "elastic clause" or the necessary and proper clause, which granted Congress the authority to pass laws deemed necessary for the execution of its powers. This provision gave Congress greater flexibility in carrying out its responsibilities.
5. Executive Branch: The Constitution created an executive branch led by a president, who would enforce the laws passed by Congress. This introduced a system of separation of powers and further increased the power and influence of Congress.
Overall, the transition from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution resulted in a more robust and empowered Congress. The Constitution endowed Congress with new powers, strengthened its ability to govern effectively, and established a framework for cooperation between the branches of government.