Under the articles of confederation, the rights and obligations of citizens were:

The Articles of Confederation was the first written constitution of the United States. Stemming from wartime urgency, its progress was slowed by fears of central authority and extensive land claims by states before was it was ratified on March 1, 1781. Under these articles, the states remained sovereign and independent, with Congress serving as the last resort on appeal of disputes. Congress was also given the authority to make treaties and alliances, maintain armed forces and coin money. However, the central government lacked the ability to levy taxes and regulate commerce, issues that led to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 for the creation of new federal laws.

Just think, why was it effective? -it appeled to critics because it was written well, that made it noticeable to the public including the white population-it was also recognizable to the african americans because it was about their heritage.-it was powerful just keep finding more points and elaborate on them. message me if you need more