What major event led to the drafting of the Constitution?

The major event that led to the drafting of the Constitution was the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. After the American Revolution, the United States initially governed itself under the Articles, which established a relatively weak federal government. This lack of centralized authority resulted in significant issues, such as the inability to levy taxes, regulate trade, and enforce laws effectively.

As states operated almost independently, conflicts arose over trade, debts, and land, undermining national unity. The economic instability and challenges faced by the nation highlighted the limitations of the Articles. This realization prompted calls for a stronger national framework, ultimately leading to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The delegates convened to address these weaknesses and created a new Constitution that provided for a more robust federal government with checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

While the American Revolution set the stage for independence and the general principles of democracy, it was the practical challenges and limitations recognized under the Articles that specifically necessitated the drafting of a new Constitution.