Lack of Centralized Military Power

Definition

The lack of centralized military power refers to the absence of a strong, central authority responsible for maintaining and commanding the armed forces of a country. In the context of the United States under the Articles of Confederation, it means that there was no central government with the authority to raise and maintain a national military.

Related terms

State Militias: State militias were local military forces organized by individual states. They played a crucial role in defending state interests due to the lack of centralized military power.

Shay's Rebellion: Shay's Rebellion was an armed uprising by farmers against foreclosure actions during 1786 and 1787. It highlighted how the lack of a centralized military power made it difficult for authorities to respond effectively.

Northwest Territory: The Northwest Territory was a region ceded by Great Britain after the Revolutionary War that eventually became several states. Its governance highlighted challenges arising from weak centralized military power as conflicts with Native American tribes persisted without proper defense mechanisms in place.