What was a key issue faced by the federal government under the new Constitution?

A key issue faced by the federal government under the new Constitution was raising revenue for national expenses. The framers of the Constitution recognized the need for a stable source of funding to support government operations, pay debts from the Revolutionary War, and finance various public projects. The Articles of Confederation, the preceding governing document, had proven ineffective in this area because it granted the federal government limited power to generate revenue, relying largely on state contributions, which were often insufficient.

To address this issue, the Constitution granted Congress the power to levy taxes and create revenue streams, such as tariffs and excise taxes. This marked a significant shift towards a stronger federal government capable of sustaining itself financially, enabling it to function effectively and fulfill its responsibilities to the nation. Thus, the ability to raise revenue was crucial for the stability and efficacy of the newly formed government under the Constitution.