Background to U.S. Constitution Declaration of Independence Articles of Confederation: Why Replace – Why Inadequate?

Weaknesses in Articles of Confederation Congress can’t tax States can limit commerce among themselves States could issue own currency Exec not independent of Cong. Changing Articles is onerous process – unanimous vote

Constitutional Convention: called to rewrite Articles Different Proposals Virginia Plan (plan of Federalists) New Jersey Plan Connecticut Compromise

Principles of the Constitution Republicanism Federalism Separation of Powers Checks and Balances

Branches of Government in the Constitution Legislative – seen as most important Executive Judicial – least developed

AMENDING THE CONSTITUTION Proposal Stage 2/3 Vote of both House and Senate OR Convention called by Congress at the request of 2/3 of state legislatures Ratification Stage 3/4 of state legislatures OR 3/4 of state ratifying conventions

“Democratizing” Amendments 13th - 1865 - Abolishes slavery 14th - 1868 - African Americans are citizens, equal protection, removes 3/5 compromise 15th - 1870 - Extends vote to African Americans 17th - 1913 - Direct election of Senators 19th - 1920 - Extends suffrage to women 24th - 1964- Abolishes poll taxes 26th - 1971 - Extends suffrage to 18 yr olds