During what period were the Articles of Confederation utilized as the US constitution?

The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States from 1781 to 1788. This period began after the Articles were ratified by the thirteen states, creating a confederation of sovereign states. During this time, the Articles functioned as the governing document, establishing a framework for national governance, including provisions for managing affairs related to defense, foreign diplomacy, and economic issues.

The years prior, from 1776 to 1781, were marked by the drafting of the Articles and a focus on independence from British rule. The years 1789 to 1791 fall under the period of the United States Constitution, which replaced the Articles of Confederation due to their inherent weaknesses. Similarly, the years 1791 to 1796 continued under the newly adopted Constitution, which established a stronger federal government. Thus, the correct identification of 1781 to 1788 aligns accurately with the operational period of the Articles of Confederation.