Great Compromise

Definition

The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was an agreement reached during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 that established a dual system of congressional representation. This compromise resolved the contentious debate between larger states wanting representation based on population and smaller states preferring equal representation, ultimately leading to a bicameral legislature with the House of Representatives based on population and the Senate providing equal representation for each state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Compromise was proposed by Roger Sherman, a delegate from Connecticut, and played a crucial role in shaping the legislative structure of the United States.
2. It balanced the interests of both large and small states, making it possible for delegates to reach consensus on a new Constitution.
3. The House of Representatives would be based on state population, while each state would have two senators, ensuring equal representation in the Senate.
4. This compromise was pivotal in preventing deadlock during the Convention, allowing for the continuation of debates and ultimately the drafting of the Constitution.
5. The Great Compromise laid the foundation for how legislation is passed in the U.S., establishing a system where both population and state equality influence federal lawmaking.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Compromise address the conflicting needs of large and small states during the Constitutional Convention?
  • The Great Compromise effectively resolved tensions between large and small states by creating a bicameral legislature. The House of Representatives would have representation based on each state's population, satisfying larger states, while the Senate would grant equal representation to all states with two senators each, addressing smaller states' concerns. This dual system allowed both groups to have a stake in federal governance, fostering cooperation and compromise during the convention.
• Evaluate the impact of the Great Compromise on the overall structure of the U.S. government as established by the Constitution.
  • The Great Compromise significantly shaped the structure of the U.S. government by creating a bicameral Congress, which remains essential to American democracy today. It established distinct roles for both chambers: the House of Representatives focuses on issues affecting larger populations, while the Senate serves to ensure equal state representation. This balance prevents any single group from having disproportionate power in legislation, reinforcing federalism and enhancing stability within government operations.
• Analyze how the Great Compromise reflects broader themes of compromise and negotiation within American political history.
  • The Great Compromise is a prime example of how compromise and negotiation have been vital throughout American political history. By accommodating varying interests—those of populous versus less populous states—it set a precedent for future negotiations in governance. The ability to find middle ground is echoed in many subsequent political agreements and reforms, illustrating how foundational compromises are necessary for unity in a diverse society. This theme continues to resonate today as lawmakers navigate conflicting priorities and interests across various levels of government.

Related terms

Bicameral Legislature: A legislative body that consists of two separate chambers or houses, such as the U.S. Congress, which is made up of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Virginia Plan: A proposal at the Constitutional Convention that favored larger states by suggesting representation in Congress should be based on population.

New Jersey Plan: A proposal at the Constitutional Convention that favored smaller states by advocating for equal representation regardless of a state's population.