The first form of government in the United States after declaring independence was the Articles of Confederation, ratified in 1781. This framework established a loose confederation of states with a weak central government, primarily to manage issues like defense and foreign affairs without overstepping state powers. Each state retained its sovereignty, leading to challenges in governance, including difficulties in passing legislation and raising funds. The limitations of the Articles prompted significant discussions and ultimately resulted in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which sought to create a stronger and more effective federal government that led to the U.S. Constitution.