What is the significance of the year 1781 in relation to the Articles of Confederation?

The year 1781 is significant in relation to the Articles of Confederation because it was the year the Articles were ratified. The ratification process began in 1777, but it was not until March 1, 1781, that the final state, Maryland, approved the document, thereby officially establishing the Articles of Confederation as the first constitution of the United States. This framework was intended to create a unified government among the thirteen states during the critical period following the Revolutionary War. Understanding this ratification year is essential as it marks the beginning of the period of governance under this document, which was characterized by a loose alliance of states with a weak central government.

The other options do not accurately reflect the significance of that year in relation to the Articles. For instance, the Articles did not end in 1781; there were ongoing challenges that eventually led to their replacement in 1789 with the Constitution. While revisions did occur, they did not take place in that particular year. Additionally, Congress existed prior to the ratification of the Articles, so it was not a founding event in that context.