This learning resource focuses on the critical evaluation of the Articles of Confederation by examining key historical events such as the Broken Bridge scenario and Shays' Rebellion. Students will analyze how the national government’s inability to impose taxes and lack of enforcement power contributed to the failure of governance during this period. The resource includes tasks for mapping these events to the structural flaws of the Articles, promoting synthesis of information regarding the paralysis of the government. Students will articulate their understanding through written arguments about the implications of state sovereignty on national authority.