a) Power to tax

A pivotal power notably lacking in the Articles of Confederation was the ability to tax. This limitation severely restricted the federal government’s capacity to raise revenue, repay war debts, and fund essential services. The lack of a taxation power led to financial instability and reliance on voluntary state contributions, which were often insufficient. This weakness in the Articles was a major factor in the push for a stronger central government under the U.S. Constitution, which eventually included provisions for federal taxation to ensure the government’s financial sustainability.