The Articles of Confederation was the first governing authority of the United States, and it was weak for several reasons. The government had a one-house unicameral Congress. Since it emphasized freedom from national authority, states retained all powers not granted to Congress. In turn, Congress only had limited powers, such as declaring war and making treaties. However, if it had declared war, then it could not force men to enlist, and if it approved a treaty, then it could not enforce the terms. The articles also made governing difficult because each state, regardless of size or population, had one vote. Any decisions required nine of the thirteen votes, and amendments required a unanimous vote. This, in essence, guaranteed that no decisions