After the American Revolution, the original 13 colonies formed their own state constitutions. Many developed the idea that a constitution should be created by special convention and be superior to the legislature. The Articles of Confederation, drafted by John Dickinson, created a weak national government that preserved state sovereignty. It gave Congress few powers and required unanimous consent for amendments. Major problems included financial troubles, lack of taxing authority, and uprisings like Shay's Rebellion, demonstrating the need for a stronger national government.