Great (Connecticut) Compromise

Definition

The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was an agreement during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that large and small states reached that in part defined the legislative structure and representation each state would have under the United States Constitution.

Analogy

Think of it like a school deciding on how to represent students in student council. Some argue it should be based on grade level (like population size), while others say every class should have equal representation. They compromise by having two representatives per grade level and additional ones based on class size.

Related terms

Bicameral Legislature: A lawmaking body made up of two chambers or parts. In the U.S., this is represented by Congress which consists of the House of Representatives (based on population) and Senate (equal representation).

Federalism: A system where power is divided between national and state governments.

Constitutional Convention: The gathering that drafted the Constitution of the United States in 1787; all states were invited to send delegates.