"We have probably had too good an opinion of human nature in forming our confederation. Experience has taught us that men will not adopt and carry into
execution, measures the best calculated for their own good without the
intervention of a coercive power. I do not conceive we can exist long as a
nation without having lodged somewhere a power which will pervade the whole
Union in as energetic a manner, as the authority of the different state
governments extend over the several States. To be fearful of vesting Congress,
constituted as that body is, with ample authorities for national purposes,
appears to me the very climax of popular absurdity and madness...
What astonishing changes a few years are capable of producing! I am told that
even respectable characters speak of a monarchial form of government without
horror. From thinking proceeds speaking, thence to acting is often but a single
step. But how irrevocable and tremendous! What a triumph for the advocates
of despotism to find that we are incapable of governing ourselves, and that
systems founded on the basis of equal liberty are merely ideal and fallacious!"
---George Washington (August 15, 1786)
1. What does Washington argue is the problem with the national government under
the Articles of Confederation? What must be done to solve the problem in his
view?