Question

Why did the authors of the articles of confederation create a weak central government

Answer 1

After generations of being under the authority of a strong king, the authors feared a strong central government.  Instead they wanted the states to have more power, so it, the power, was distributed into the hands of multiple people, not one (like a king).  In fact, they didn't even have a chief executive (president).  Hope that helps.

Answer 2

To protect against tryanny