Which statement best describes how the Constitution differed from the Articles of Confederation in terms of federal power?

• A. The Constitution left the federal government with the same powers as the Articles
• B. The Constitution created a stronger federal government with the power to tax, regulate commerce, and enforce laws
• C. The Constitution abolished the states' sovereignty
• D. The Constitution offered no governance changes

Answer: (B)

This question tests the shift in federal power from the Articles of Confederation to the Constitution. Under the Articles, the national government was weak: Congress could request money and handle war or diplomacy, but it could not compel states to pay taxes or regulate trade, leaving the national government with little ability to enforce its laws. The Constitution changes that by establishing a stronger federal framework with power vested in the national government to levy taxes, regulate interstate and foreign commerce, and enforce laws across the states. This combination creates a more capable central authority that can raise revenue, manage trade, and ensure compliance with national standards, addressing the major weaknesses of the Articles. The other statements don’t fit because the Constitution did not keep the same powers as the Articles, it did not abolish state sovereignty entirely—states retained significant authority within a stronger national system—and it introduced substantial governance changes, including a federal framework with enforceable laws and separate branches.