Key Decisions of the Constitutional Convention of 1787
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Explore the pivotal decisions made during the 1787 Constitutional Convention, from the role of George Washington to the creation of a bicameral Congress and the electoral college. Learn about the conflicts that led to compromise and the formation of a new government structure that balanced state and national powers. Discover how the separation of powers and the three-fifths compromise shaped the foundation of the United States. Delve into the reasons behind the delegates' decisions and the lasting impact of these key moments in American history.
Key Decisions of the Constitutional Convention of 1787
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Presentation Transcript
Class starter for 10-29-2009 Open Book to p. 130-31. Why do you think that George Washington was portrayed in such a prominent role?
Call for Convention • Conflict between states re: interstate trade • 1786: 5 states send delegates to Annapolis, MD • 1787: 12 states send delegates to Philadelphia • b/c of fears (Shays Rebellion) • Rhode Island: no show • 55 delegates • Most were lawyers, merchants, planters, rich, well-educated • Geo. Washington-presiding officer
Conflict leads to compromise • Central gov’t needed to be strengthened • Madison’s Virginia Plan • Bicameral legislature • Membership based on population • Paterson’s New Jersey Plan • Unicameral legislature • Each state has equal vote • Great Compromise • Bicameral Congress • House of Representatives: population-based • Senate: equal representation • Three-Fifths compromise • Slaves would count for 3/5 of state’s population • Resolution passed not allowing Congress to deal with slave trade for 20 years.
Creating a New Gov’t • Form of federalism • State and nat’lgov’t have power • Enumerated powers: national gov’t • Reserved powers: state gov’t • Shared right to tax, borrow money, pay debts, est. courts • Separation of Powers • Three branches of gov’t • Legislative: makes laws • Executive: carry out laws • Judicial: interpret the law • Electoral College elected President • Electors = to number of reps and senators in Congress