What structural issue was a significant criticism of the Articles of Confederation?

The Articles of Confederation established a framework for the United States' first government after independence but had significant limitations. One of the key criticisms was the lack of a centralized authority to regulate trade among the states and with foreign nations. This inability to control commerce led to economic instability and conflicts between states, as each state could set its own trade policies. Consequently, this often resulted in trade barriers and disputes that hindered economic growth and cooperation.

The lack of a strong central government also meant that Congress did not have the power to impose tariffs or regulate interstate commerce, which severely restricted the ability to create a cohesive economic strategy for the nation. This structural weakness highlighted the need for a more effective governing framework, ultimately leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which provided for a stronger federal government with the authority to regulate trade.