Virginia Plan

Definition

A proposal by Virginia delegates for a bicameral legislative branch during the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It proposed representation based on population or financial contributions by each state.

Historical Context

The Virginia Plan was proposed during the Constitutional Convention in 1787, which convened to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. Drafted by James Madison and presented by Edmund Randolph, the plan reflected the interests of more populous states like Virginia. It proposed a strong central government with a bicameral legislature based on proportional representation, an executive chosen by the legislature, and a judiciary.

Historical Significance

The Virginia Plan was significant as it set the stage for discussions at the Constitutional Convention and influenced the structure of the U.S. government. While not adopted in its original form, it laid the groundwork for a federal system with checks and balances, which became integral to the Constitution. The eventual Great Compromise merged elements from both the Virginia Plan and New Jersey Plan, leading to today's legislative structure with two housesHistorical Significance: one with proportional representation (House of Representatives) and one with equal representation for all states (Senate).

Related terms

New Jersey Plan: A counter-proposal to the Virginia Plan that suggested equal representation for all states regardless of size or population.

Bicameral Legislature: A lawmaking body made up two chambers or houses; this concept was introduced by Virginia plan and later adopted in US Constitution.

Constitutional Convention: Meeting held in Philadelphia in 1787 where delegates from twelve out thirteen colonies drafted US Constitution.