Government Power

Question

Did America’s original government have the types of powers that is has today? How are things different?

Answer 1

The original US government was founded under the articles of Confederation, and didn't have near the amount of power the Federal Government has today. Under this organization, disputes between the states were common, particularly in terms of commerce and trade. Specifically, the lack of a national currency made exchange nearly impossible. These conflicts led to the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Still, that document created a vastly more limited government than the one we have in the United States today. Major differences include the role government has ensuring the welfare of the nation. Modern, Federal powers include providing services to citizens not specifically outline in the Founder's vision for the country. Because of this, the need for more federal employees and departments has increased exponentially since the New Deal legislation of the 1930's.