Constitutional Convention

Definition

The Constitutional Convention was a pivotal meeting held in 1787 in Philadelphia, where delegates from the thirteen original states gathered to address the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation. This gathering led to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which established a new framework for government that emphasized federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Constitutional Convention was held from May to September 1787, with 55 delegates attending, including notable figures like George Washington and James Madison.
2. Delegates at the convention faced intense debates over representation, leading to the Great Compromise, which established a bicameral legislature.
3. The resulting U.S. Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, and later ratified by the states, replacing the Articles of Confederation.
4. The Federalist Papers were written during this period to promote the ratification of the Constitution, highlighting the need for a stronger federal government.
5. The convention established key principles such as checks and balances and limited government, which remain foundational to American democracy today.

Review Questions

• What were the main objectives of the Constitutional Convention and how did they address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
  • The main objectives of the Constitutional Convention were to create a stronger national government and address the weaknesses inherent in the Articles of Confederation. Delegates recognized that the existing framework failed to provide adequate authority for Congress to regulate commerce or enforce laws. This realization prompted discussions that ultimately led to the drafting of a new Constitution, focusing on federalism and balancing state and national powers.
• Discuss the significance of the Great Compromise achieved during the Constitutional Convention and its impact on legislative structure.
  • The Great Compromise was significant because it resolved conflicts between large and small states regarding representation in Congress. It established a bicameral legislature, with proportional representation in the House of Representatives based on population and equal representation in the Senate. This compromise not only allowed for a more balanced legislative structure but also helped facilitate broader support for ratification among diverse state interests.
• Evaluate how the debates and outcomes of the Constitutional Convention continue to influence contemporary American governance.
  • The debates and outcomes of the Constitutional Convention have lasting implications on contemporary American governance by establishing foundational principles such as separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism. These principles guide how power is distributed and limited among branches of government today. Additionally, ongoing discussions about states' rights versus federal authority echo concerns raised during the convention, illustrating how these early deliberations continue to shape political discourse and legal interpretations in modern America.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation: The first governing document of the United States, which created a weak central government and ultimately proved ineffective in addressing national issues.

Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for both national and state governance.

Separation of Powers: A governance principle that divides government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.