The Continental Congress, seeking to unite the thirteen colonies under a common framework of governance, presented the Articles of Confederation to the individual states for ratification on November 17, 1777. Drafted by a committee led by John Dickinson, the Articles were intended to be a response to the need for a structured government during and after the American Revolutionary War. They aimed to balance state sovereignty with the need for a central authority, addressing the challenges posed by British rule and potential inter-colonial conflicts.

The Articles outlined the powers and responsibilities of the national government, which would have authority over foreign affairs, military matters, and interactions between states. However, significant limitations were also placed on Congress, such as the inability to levy taxes or regulate commerce directly, which was a reflection of the colonies' wariness of centralized power reminiscent of the British monarchy.

Once submitted, the Articles incited debate among the states, with some embracing the framework while others were concerned about yielding too much power to a national government. The ratification process ultimately took until 1781, but the initial submission was a significant moment in forming a cohesive national identity. Each state held varying perspectives on the balance of power between state and federal governance, which set the stage for ongoing discussions regarding the future of the American political system.