What was the purpose of the Articles of Confederation?

The purpose of the Articles of Confederation was primarily to provide guidance for governance during the American Revolution. At the time, the newly formed states needed a framework to coordinate their efforts and manage their relations with one another as they fought for independence from British rule. The Articles of Confederation served as the first written constitution of the United States, laying out a loose alliance between the states rather than establishing a strong federal government. This document was crucial in fostering cooperation among the states in wartime and addressing issues such as defense and foreign diplomacy, despite its limitations which eventually led to the need for a stronger federal system. The other options, while related to government and rights, do not accurately represent the primary function of the Articles during the revolutionary period.