- The ability to declare war and make peace.
- The ability to enter into treaties with foreign nations.
- The ability to resolve disputes between states.
- The ability to borrow money and print currency.
- The ability to regulate foreign commerce and the postal system.
- The ability to set up and regulate a national court system.
However, the central government did not have the power to tax citizens directly, regulate domestic commerce, or maintain a standing army. These powers were reserved for the individual states.