The articles of confederation were finally approved when

all states claiming western lands surrendered them to the national government.

Explanation:

The articles of confederation was finally approved on March 1 1781. It was signed by the Congress before been sent to every state for it to be approved on November 15 1777. This was after a long period of 16 months of debate and argument over land claims that existed between Maryland and Virginia which lead to the delay of the final approval for over 4 years.