This topic discusses the Constitutional Convention, which was held in Philadelphia in 1787 to draft the US Constitution. The Constitution established the framework for the federal government and defined the powers and rights of the people and the states.
Background and Context: Understanding the events and circumstances that led to the calling of the Constitutional Convention, including the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the need for a stronger federal government.
Delegates and Participants: Learning about the prominent figures who attended the Convention, including James Madison, George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Benjamin Franklin.
Virginia Plan vs. New Jersey Plan: Understanding the competing proposals put forth at the Convention, specifically the Virginia Plan, which called for a strong central government and bicameral legislative system, and the New Jersey Plan, which advocated for state sovereignty and equal representation.
Great Compromise: Studying the successful compromise that emerged from the Convention, which created a bicameral legislature with one house based on proportional representation and the other based on equal representation for each state.
Three-Fifths Compromise: Examining the controversial agreement that allowed three-fifths of a state's enslaved population to be counted towards its representation in Congress.
Bill of Rights: Learning about the debate over whether or not to include a Bill of Rights in the new Constitution, and the eventual compromise that resulted in the first 10 amendments being added.
Ratification: Understanding the process by which the Constitution was ratified by the states, including the role of the Federalist Papers in promoting support for the document.
Legacy and Impact: Analyzing the lasting influence of the Constitutional Convention on American politics and government, including the principles of federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances that are still in place today.