New Constitution

Definition

The New Constitution refers to the foundational document of the United States, created in 1787, which established the framework for the federal government and replaced the Articles of Confederation. It aimed to balance power between the federal and state governments while addressing the weaknesses found in the earlier governing document, emphasizing a stronger national authority and the protection of individual rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The New Constitution was drafted during the Philadelphia Convention in 1787 and was officially ratified in 1788.
2. Key debates during its creation included issues of representation, slavery, and how to maintain a balance of power between large and small states.
3. The New Constitution established a bicameral legislature, an executive branch headed by a president, and an independent judiciary.
4. To address concerns about individual liberties, the Bill of Rights was added as the first ten amendments shortly after ratification in 1791.
5. Ratification required the support of nine out of thirteen states, leading to intense debates between Federalists, who supported the Constitution, and Anti-Federalists, who opposed it.

Review Questions

• How did the New Constitution address the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation?
  • The New Constitution improved upon the Articles of Confederation by creating a stronger central government with the ability to levy taxes, regulate commerce, and enforce laws. It established an executive branch led by a president to ensure efficient administration and accountability. This framework was designed to overcome the issues faced under the Articles, where states had too much power and there was no effective way to unify or govern the nation as a whole.
• What were some major points of contention during the ratification debate for the New Constitution?
  • During the ratification debate, major points of contention included concerns over federal power versus states' rights, representation based on population versus equal representation for states, and fears that individual liberties might be compromised. Federalists advocated for a strong central government to maintain order and unity, while Anti-Federalists pushed for safeguards against tyranny, eventually leading to the inclusion of the Bill of Rights.
• Evaluate how the New Constitution's framework has influenced modern governance in the United States.
  • The framework established by the New Constitution has had a profound influence on modern governance in the United States by creating a system based on checks and balances among three branches of government. This structure is designed to prevent any one branch from gaining excessive power. Furthermore, principles like federalism continue to shape political discussions today regarding state versus federal authority. The ongoing interpretation and application of constitutional principles ensure that it remains relevant and adaptable to contemporary issues while upholding individual rights.

Related terms

Federalism:

A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states.

Separation of Powers:

The principle of dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Bill of Rights:

The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that guarantee essential rights and civil liberties to individuals.