The Constitutional Convention, held in Philadelphia in 1787, was a pivotal event where delegates from 12 states (Rhode Island did not attend) met to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and ultimately created the United States Constitution
Key Events and Outcomes:
- Virginia Plan and National Government: Early in the convention, James Madison proposed the Virginia Plan, advocating a strong national government with three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. This plan called for a bicameral legislature and was a radical departure from the Articles of Confederation
- Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise): A major debate was over representation in Congress. Large states wanted representation based on population, while small states wanted equal representation. The compromise created a bicameral legislature with the House of Representatives apportioned by population and the Senate providing equal representation for each state
- Executive Branch: The convention established an executive branch headed by a president, chosen by an Electoral College. This was a carefully debated issue due to fears of tyranny, but George Washington’s presence helped solidify trust in the office
- Slavery and the Three-Fifths Compromise: Slavery was a contentious issue. The delegates agreed that enslaved people would count as three-fifths of a person for representation and taxation purposes. They also allowed the slave trade to continue until 1808, after which Congress could ban it
- Commerce and Federal Powers: The convention addressed economic disputes between states by allowing the federal government to regulate interstate commerce and impose taxes. This was meant to unify the economy and prevent states from competing against each other
- Checks and Balances: The Constitution created three branches of government with a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful
- Signing and Ratification: Out of 55 delegates, 39 signed the Constitution. Some delegates refused to sign, demanding a Bill of Rights, which was later added as amendments after ratification
In summary, the Constitutional Convention transformed the United States government by replacing the Articles of Confederation with a stronger federal system, balancing power between large and small states, addressing slavery and commerce issues, and creating a system of government with separated powers and checks and balances
