Which of the following articles of government allowed the U.S. Congress to legislate on issues of foreign policy and treaties?

The correct answer is the U.S. Constitution. This foundational document established a stronger federal government and clearly delineated the powers of Congress, specifically granting it the authority to regulate foreign affairs and enter into treaties. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution gives Congress the power to "declare war," "raise and support armies," and "make rules for the government and regulation of the land and naval forces," along with the authority to regulate commerce with foreign nations. This contrasts with the Articles of Confederation, which established a weak national government that lacked the power to levy taxes or regulate foreign trade effectively, making it difficult for the central authority to manage international relations. The Virginia Plan, which was a proposal during the Constitutional Convention, suggested a framework for the structure of government but did not itself provide legislative power. The Northwest Ordinance was legislation that addressed the governance of the Northwest Territory and did not pertain specifically to foreign affairs.