Constitutional Convention

Definition

The Constitutional Convention was a gathering held in Philadelphia in 1787 to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and to draft a new constitution for the United States. Delegates from the thirteen states convened to create a stronger federal government, resulting in the establishment of a framework that would balance state and national interests, fundamentally shaping American governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Constitutional Convention took place from May to September 1787 and was attended by 55 delegates, including prominent figures like George Washington and James Madison.
2. One major outcome of the Convention was the creation of a bicameral legislature, which consisted of the House of Representatives and the Senate, ensuring representation for both populous and less populous states.
3. The delegates debated key issues such as representation, slavery, and the powers of the federal government, ultimately leading to compromises like the Three-Fifths Compromise.
4. The new Constitution established a system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
5. Following the Convention, the proposed Constitution faced opposition and debate during the ratification process, with Federalists advocating for its approval and Anti-Federalists voicing concerns over potential tyranny.

Review Questions

• How did the outcomes of the Constitutional Convention address the weaknesses identified in the Articles of Confederation?
  • The outcomes of the Constitutional Convention directly tackled the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation by creating a stronger federal government with authority to tax, regulate commerce, and maintain an army. The delegates recognized that the lack of a centralized power led to economic instability and inability to enforce laws. By drafting a new Constitution that established a system of checks and balances and a bicameral legislature, they aimed to create an effective government capable of addressing both state and national concerns.
• What were some key compromises made during the Constitutional Convention, and why were they necessary?
  • Key compromises such as the Great Compromise and the Three-Fifths Compromise were essential for achieving consensus among delegates with differing views. The Great Compromise resolved disputes between large and small states regarding representation in Congress by creating a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate. The Three-Fifths Compromise addressed contentious issues surrounding slavery by counting enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for purposes of taxation and representation, balancing competing interests between northern and southern states.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of decisions made at the Constitutional Convention on American governance and political structure.
  • The decisions made at the Constitutional Convention had profound long-term impacts on American governance and political structure by establishing foundational principles such as federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights. These principles have guided U.S. governance through various historical challenges, including civil rights movements and debates over state versus federal authority. The framework laid out in the Constitution continues to influence modern political discourse, legislative practices, and judicial interpretations, demonstrating its enduring significance in shaping American democracy.

Related terms

Articles of Confederation: The first constitution of the United States, which created a weak federal government and ultimately failed to maintain order or unity among the states.

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

Ratification: The formal approval process by which states accepted the new Constitution, requiring support from nine out of the thirteen states for it to take effect.