I've always wondered about a Confederation whefe the federal government only controls standards (same weapon types in all states, later railroad lengths, etc) and during a conflic against a foreign power they assume control of the armies, among other minor things. The states control the big stuff and for the most part would be on their own.
Would that have worked? Or would it still lead to a disintegration of the country?
Would that have worked? Or would it still lead to a disintegration of the country?