Framing the Constitution

1. Framing the Constitution Charles A Beard 1913

2. Introduction • Suggests a cohesive, conspiratorial economic elite. • Founding Fathers were not philosopher kings • Reason for the convention wasto limit majority rule • Safeguard private property against the masses • Originally, the idea was not widely accepted • Key leaders at convention were not substantial property owners

3. Summary • We must study the Constitution’s formation. • Independence was a radical response to tyranny. • Use of conventions were the groundwork for the new government. • Early proposed alterations existed. • Delegates were limited in what they could change.

4. Summary • It was an incredible group that was assembled. • Many examples of their experience. • Accomplished men showed up for this convention. The earlier radical were not there. • The idea of the masses had never worked. They only wanted to make them feel like they were involved.

5. Summary • The assembly was not idealistic about democracy and equality, but practical about how to preserve wealth. • Privileged aristocracy guards against volatile democracy. • They feared popular revolt of those without property. • Definitions for property and qualifications for voting were troublesome.

6. Summary • Checks and balances preserves property against the attacks and oppression of the majority. • Many devises to keep parliamentary majorities out of popular hands. • Veto is essential to stop bad popular law. • Ratifying conventions were a way to keep the new government near the people.

7. Summary • Delegate conventions were merely suggested, not required. • Early campaigning to ratify and begin. • The Federalist Papers • Us government is not a Democracy • Fragmented authority • Roche or Beard • Both and • Neither ?