Why do you think the smaller states were satisfied with government under the articles of confederation?

Articles of Confederation formulated a weak national government with most of the political powers retained by the states. The Articles presented no division of branches. Smaller states were satisfied with the government under the articles of confederation because states were authorized to mint their personal money. There was no control of trade between the States.

States could even the treaties with international nations and have the power to declare war, "with the approval of Congress."