The document that set forth principles for governing the new nation after the American Revolution is the "Articles of Confederation." Adopted in 1781, the Articles served as the first constitution for the United States, establishing a framework for a loose union of states. It granted significant powers to individual states while maintaining a weak central government. However, its inability to manage economic issues and enforce laws led to various challenges, including Shays' Rebellion. The shortcomings of the Articles eventually prompted the drafting of a more robust constitution in 1787, which established a stronger federal government.