Great Compromise

Definition

The Great Compromise was a pivotal agreement reached during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that established a dual system of congressional representation. This compromise addressed the debate between large and small states by creating a bicameral legislature, where the House of Representatives would be based on population and the Senate would provide equal representation with two senators from each state. This balanced approach helped to unify differing interests and laid the foundation for the legislative framework of the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Compromise was crucial in resolving the conflict between states with large populations, which wanted representation based on population, and smaller states that preferred equal representation.
2. This compromise led to the establishment of two houses in Congress: the House of Representatives, with representatives based on state population, and the Senate, where each state has two senators.
3. The agreement was proposed by Roger Sherman, a delegate from Connecticut, who played a key role in bridging the gap between competing interests.
4. The Great Compromise is also known as the Connecticut Compromise, named after the state where it was proposed.
5. The compromise not only helped shape the legislative structure but also contributed significantly to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution by addressing concerns from various states.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Compromise address the concerns of both large and small states during the Constitutional Convention?
  • The Great Compromise resolved tensions between large and small states by creating a bicameral legislature that balanced representation. In the House of Representatives, representation is based on state population, favoring larger states, while the Senate grants equal representation with two senators per state, addressing smaller states' concerns. This dual structure allowed both sides to feel their interests were adequately represented in the new government.
• Evaluate the impact of the Great Compromise on the overall structure of American government.
  • The Great Compromise fundamentally shaped American governance by establishing a bicameral legislature, which introduced a system of checks and balances within Congress. By combining elements from both the Virginia Plan and New Jersey Plan, it ensured diverse interests were represented. This structure has allowed for a more comprehensive debate on legislation and has been critical in maintaining balance between populous and less populous states throughout American history.
• Analyze how the Great Compromise influenced future political negotiations and compromises within American politics.
  • The Great Compromise set a precedent for political negotiation in American governance by demonstrating how conflicting interests can be reconciled through dialogue and compromise. It highlighted the importance of collaboration among differing factions, which became essential in subsequent debates over issues such as slavery, civil rights, and healthcare. This spirit of compromise has been vital in shaping legislation and maintaining stability within a diverse political landscape.

Related terms

Bicameral Legislature: A legislative body that consists of two separate chambers or houses, such as the House of Representatives and the Senate in the United States.

Virginia Plan: A proposal at the Constitutional Convention that favored larger states by suggesting representation based on population.

New Jersey Plan: A proposal that favored smaller states by advocating for equal representation regardless of population size in Congress.