What significant feature did the Articles of Confederation lack?

The Articles of Confederation lacked a national court system, which is a significant feature because it meant there was no federal judiciary to interpret laws or ensure uniform application across states. This absence led to various challenges, such as inconsistencies in legal rulings and the inability to resolve disputes between states effectively. Without a structured court system, enforcing national laws and treaties was problematic, contributing to the articles' ineffectiveness in governing the nation.

While other aspects like a legislative body and a system of taxation were also flawed or insufficient under the Articles, the absence of a national court system particularly highlighted the weaknesses in federal authority and the need for a stronger judiciary, which was later addressed in the U.S. Constitution.