It can be confusing to learn that the U.S. Constitution wasn't the first document governing the United States. The Articles of Confederation was a problematic document, and the social studies curriculum commonly asks students to understand why and its effect on the Constitution. This volume summarizes the writing of the Articles as well as its problems for readers unfamiliar with the document or in need of reviewing it. Key definitions and explanations are offered in short fact boxes, ensuring that readers of all levels can understand the Articles of Confederation.