Committee Report on Carrying the Confederation Into Effect

The “Committee Report on Carrying the Confederation Into Effect and on Additional Powers Needed by Congress,” dated 22 August 1781, is a pivotal document from the Continental Congress during the American Revolutionary War. It outlines the practical steps required to implement the Articles of Confederation and proposes additional powers for Congress to ensure effective governance and support the war effort.

Impetus

The report was motivated by the pressing need to address the operational weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Adopted as the first governing framework of the United States, the Articles created a loose confederation of sovereign states with a weak central government. This structure proved inadequate for coordinating the war against Britain, as Congress lacked the authority to enforce state contributions of troops, funds, or resources. The committee aimed to strengthen the Confederation to secure independence and maintain stability.

Origins

The document arose from the Continental Congress’s recognition of the Confederation’s limitations, particularly its inability to unify the states effectively. Drafted by a committee tasked with preparing an exposition and execution plan for the Confederation, the report reflects the growing realization that the central government required more authority to meet national challenges. The wartime context underscored the urgency of these reforms.

Process

The committee chose not to provide a detailed exposition of the Confederation, arguing that it would be too lengthy and potentially contentious. Instead, they outlined 21 specific measures to execute the Confederation, such as:

• Standardizing militia aid between states.
• Defining citizens’ rights across state lines.
• Establishing a mint, post office, and uniform legal procedures.

These tasks were assigned to various departments, like the Board of War and Superintendent of Finance, for detailed development. The committee also proposed that states grant Congress additional powers, including imposing embargoes and managing taxes, and suggested appointing another committee to persuade the states to adopt these changes—a complex process given the need for unanimous state approval under the Articles.

Implications

• Political: The report highlighted the tension between state sovereignty and federal authority, setting the stage for debates that led to the U.S. Constitution.
• Legal and Administrative: It aimed to create a more cohesive national system by standardizing legal and administrative practices.
• Military and Economic: Proposed powers like embargoes and tax collection sought to enhance military and economic coordination during the war.
• Constitutional: By exposing the Confederation’s shortcomings, the report foreshadowed the need for a stronger federal government, ultimately influencing the constitutional framework of 1787.

This document captures a critical moment in the evolution of American governance, illustrating the challenges of balancing unity and autonomy in a fledgling nation.