1. the national government and the state governments were bankrupt. former army soldiers had been promised payments for their war service and were on the verge of open mutiny in several areas. why was the confederation congress unable to make needed payments?

The Confederation was unable to meet its obligations because it did not have the authority to pass tariffs or to order the states to pass tariffs. As a result, it faced trade problems with countries and among states, war debts, and a weak economy.

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the national congress's powers over the states were specific and definite: it had the sole power to negotiate treaties, declare war, and make peace. all powers not granted to congress were reserved for state governments. congress had no power to levy taxes, for example.