What limitation did the Articles of Confederation impose on the federal government?

The Articles of Confederation established a weak central government that lacked the authority to tax or regulate trade between the states. This limitation significantly hindered the federal government's ability to generate revenue and manage interstate commerce effectively. Without the power to impose taxes, the government struggled to fund its operations, leading to challenges in maintaining an army, paying debts, or providing essential services. Additionally, not being able to control trade between states resulted in economic disarray, as states could impose tariffs on each other and create their own trade agreements, further weakening the overall unity and functionality of the new nation. This limitation played a crucial role in highlighting the need for a stronger federal structure, ultimately leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.