2.1 FRQ Response 2.1 Review Question: Free Response In a letter to James Madison in November of 1786, George Washington wrote. What stronger evidence can be given of the want of energy in our government than these disorders? If there exists not a power to check them, what security has a man of life, liberty; or property? To you, I am sure I need not add aught on this subject, the consequences of a lax, or inefficient government, are too obvious to be dwelt on. Thirteen sovereignties pulling agains each other, and all tugging at the focderal head will soon bring ruin to the whole;whereas a liberal, and energetic Constitution, well guarded & closely watched to prevent incroschments, might restore us to that degree of respectability & consequence to which we had fair claim,the brightest prospect of attaining." After reading the passage use your knowledge of U.S. Government and Politics to respond to parts A, B, and C. A.In the context of the passage, describe George Washington's main concern regarding the Articles of Confederation. B.Describe one way in which the Articles of Confederation distributed power between the states and the national government. C.Explain one reason why the drafters of the Articles of Confederation were worried about creating too much power in a central government. __ A __ B __ C

## Step1<br />The first part of the question asks us to describe George Washington's main concern regarding the Articles of Confederation. From the passage, it is clear that George Washington was worried about the lack of energy in the government, which was causing disorders and instability. He believed that the government was too lax and inefficient, leading to a lack of respect and consequence for the United States.<br /><br />## Step2<br />The second part of the question asks us to describe one way in which the Articles of Confederation distributed power between the states and the national government. The Articles of Confederation established a weak central government and gave most of the power to the states. This meant that each state had its own sovereignty and could make its own laws and regulations.<br /><br />## Step3<br />The third part of the question asks us to explain one reason why the drafters of the Articles of Confederation were worried about creating too much power in a central government. The drafters were concerned that a strong central government could become tyrannical and infringe upon the rights and liberties of the people. They wanted to avoid a situation where the central government could become too powerful and oppressive, similar to what they had experienced under British rule.