🪶american literature – before 1860 review

key term - Constitutional convention

Definition

The constitutional convention was a gathering held in Philadelphia in 1787 to address the problems of the weak Articles of Confederation and to draft a new constitution for the United States. This convention led to the creation of a stronger federal government and established fundamental principles such as separation of powers and checks and balances that would shape American governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The constitutional convention took place from May to September 1787 and involved 55 delegates from 12 of the 13 states, with Rhode Island opting out.
  2. Key figures at the convention included George Washington, who presided over the meetings, as well as James Madison, who is often called the 'Father of the Constitution' for his pivotal role in its drafting.
  3. The outcome of the convention was a new Constitution that established a bicameral legislature, an executive branch headed by a president, and a judiciary to interpret laws.
  4. Debates during the convention addressed critical issues such as representation, slavery, and the balance of power between large and small states.
  5. The Constitution created a framework for federalism, allowing both the national and state governments to exercise authority over their respective jurisdictions.

Review Questions

  • How did the constitutional convention address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation?
    • The constitutional convention directly tackled the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation by creating a new framework for governance that included a stronger central authority. Delegates recognized that the Articles had failed to provide an effective means for taxation, regulation of commerce, or enforcement of laws. By establishing a system with separate branches of government, they aimed to ensure that power was balanced and could effectively manage national interests.
  • Discuss how debates about representation during the constitutional convention influenced the final structure of Congress.
    • Debates on representation were crucial at the constitutional convention, leading to significant compromises like the Great Compromise. Larger states favored representation based on population size, while smaller states wanted equal representation. This resulted in a bicameral legislature consisting of the House of Representatives, where representation is based on population, and the Senate, where each state has equal representation. This compromise was vital in gaining support for ratification among diverse states.
  • Evaluate how the principles established at the constitutional convention have shaped modern American governance.
    • The principles established at the constitutional convention have had a lasting impact on American governance by embedding concepts such as separation of powers and checks and balances into the political system. These principles ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful, fostering accountability and protecting individual liberties. Furthermore, the framework created has allowed for adaptability over time through amendments, which demonstrates its foundational role in promoting democracy and governance in the United States.