Ratification debates

Definition

Ratification debates refer to discussions and arguments held among Americans during the process of approving or rejecting important documents such as constitutions or treaties. In this context, it specifically refers to debates surrounding whether or not to ratify (approve) the United States Constitution.

Related terms

Federalist Papers: A series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Constitutional Convention: The gathering held in Philadelphia in 1787 where delegates from twelve states (excluding Rhode Island) met to draft the U.S. Constitution.

New Jersey Plan: A proposal presented during the Constitutional Convention by smaller states, which called for equal representation of states in Congress.