Constitutional Convention

Definition

The Constitutional Convention was a gathering that took place in Philadelphia in 1787, where delegates from the thirteen original states came together to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and draft a new Constitution for the United States. This pivotal event laid the groundwork for a stronger federal government and sparked significant debates regarding the balance of power between states and the federal authority.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Constitutional Convention was attended by 55 delegates, including prominent figures such as George Washington, James Madison, and Benjamin Franklin.
2. The debates at the convention resulted in several compromises, such as the Great Compromise, which established a bicameral legislature balancing representation by population and equal state representation.
3. The outcome of the convention was the United States Constitution, which was signed on September 17, 1787.
4. The convention was initially held in secret, allowing delegates to speak freely without public scrutiny, which facilitated open discussions about contentious issues.
5. After drafting the Constitution, delegates faced significant opposition from Anti-Federalists who argued that it concentrated too much power in the hands of the federal government.

Review Questions

• How did the Constitutional Convention address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
  • The Constitutional Convention aimed to solve the issues presented by the Articles of Confederation, which created a weak central government unable to enforce laws or collect taxes. Delegates recognized that a stronger federal government was necessary for national unity and effective governance. They crafted a new Constitution that established a system with three branches of government, each with its own powers and responsibilities, thereby ensuring checks and balances.
• Discuss the significance of compromises made during the Constitutional Convention and their impact on federal-state relations.
  • Compromises like the Great Compromise and the Three-Fifths Compromise were crucial to gaining support for the new Constitution among diverse state interests. The Great Compromise resolved disputes between large and small states regarding representation in Congress by creating a bicameral legislature. These compromises not only shaped legislative structure but also influenced future debates about federalism and how power should be shared between state and federal governments.
• Evaluate how debates surrounding ratification reflected broader concerns about democracy and governance in the early United States.
  • The ratification debates showcased deep-seated concerns about democracy and governance, as Anti-Federalists feared that a strong central government could lead to tyranny. Prominent figures like Patrick Henry and George Mason argued for individual liberties and state sovereignty, prompting Federalists to respond with assurances regarding checks and balances. This clash highlighted fundamental questions about representation, rights, and what it meant to create a government that balanced power while ensuring liberty for its citizens.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation: The first governing document of the United States, which created a weak federal government that lacked the authority to regulate commerce or levy taxes.

Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states.

Ratification: The formal approval process of the Constitution by the states, requiring nine out of thirteen states to ratify for it to become effective.