As a result of the weaknesses of the articles of confederation, the states thought of themselves as small, separate _________. counties nations armies provinces

The weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, the first constitution of the United States, created a situation where the central government had limited powers and struggled to maintain unity among the states. As a result, each state operated with a considerable degree of autonomy, akin to small, separate nations. The central government lacked the authority to enforce laws, raise revenue, or maintain a standing army effectively.

States functioned as independent entities, often pursuing their own interests, entering into agreements with foreign powers, and having their own currencies. This lack of a strong central authority led to issues such as trade disputes, conflicting state currencies, and challenges in raising funds for the national government.

The perception of being small, separate nations arose because the states had more power and authority than the central government. The term "confederation" itself implies a loose association of independent entities. It became apparent that a stronger, more unified system was needed to address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation, leading to the Constitutional Convention and the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.