Constitutional Convention

Organization

The representatives unanimously chose Gorge Washington to preside over the meetings. Each state had one vote and only a simple majority was needed to make the decisions. The public and press were not allowed at the meetings to allow these representatives to speak freely.

Virginia Plan

  • Strong national legislature with two chambers. 
  • Strong national executive to be chosen by the national legislature.
  • National judiciary to be appointed by the legislature.

New Jersey Plan

This plan called for government based on keeping many features of the Articles:
  • Unicameral legislature with one vote per state
  • Focused on the equality of small states within the government
  • Simply intended to amend Articles

Connecticut Compromise

Also known as Great Compromise

Legislative branch would have two parts:
  • House of Reprepresentives with state representation based on population
  • Senate with two members from each state
    • Originally, state legislatures would elect senators

Slavery and the Constitution

Three-fifths compromise meant that three-fifths of enslaved people counted for tax and representation purposes.

Federalists

Supporters of the Constitution who believed in a strong national government.

Anti-Federalists

Opposed the new Constitution and were concerned about lack of state rights. They wanted a Bill of Rights included to guarantee people's freedoms.

Ratification

Federalists promising to add a Bill of Rights to gain necessary support turned the tide for the Constitution.

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