Why did colonists feel the Articles of Confederation were necessary even though the Declaration of Independence was already written?

Colonists felt the Articles of Confederation were necessary because, despite declaring independence, they needed a formal framework for governance and cooperation among the newly independent states. The Articles provided a system for managing collective issues like defense, trade, and diplomacy, which were crucial for survival and unity. Additionally, they aimed to establish a sense of legitimacy and order in the absence of British authority. The Articles served as a stepping stone towards a more structured government, highlighting the need for a balance between state and federal powers.