LESSON 9: ORGANIZING THE CONVENTION

Lesson objectives Describe the organizing phase of the Philadelphia Convention Rules and agendas for effective civil discussion Take and defend positions on determining what interest should be represented in a constitutional convention Advantages and disadvantages of secrecy in governmental deliberation

Highly regarded 55 Delegates attend the Convention – Framers Appointed by legislatures: 2 – New Hampshire 8 – Pennsylvania Various ages 26-81 Various economic backgrounds Prominent in state; some played important roles in the revolution Respected group: French observer – “[Never before]… “even in Europe”… [had their been]... “an assembly more respectable for talents, knowledge, disinterestedness and patriotism.” Jefferson wrote to Adams the convention was, “as assembly of demi-gods”

Washington Most respected and honored man in the country Led Revolutionary forces in the Revolutionary War Convinced the US needed a strong national government Initially did not want to attend Did not want the perception that he was not in support of a republican form of government Elected as president of the convention Did not actively take part in debates His presence and the assumption of presidency were essential to the success of the convention

James Madison Great Influence Studied ancient and modern political theory 36 in Philadelphia Commitment to free exercise of religion Help frame the Virginia State Constitution Took outstanding notes throughout the convention

Ben franklin 81 at the time of the convention Near the end needed assistance to sign Internationally respected Supported a strong national government Was out voted by state delegation Left the convention Signed the Constitution

Others James Wilson – Penn- office of President Gouverneur [sic] Morris – Penn-principal role in helping draft the Constitution Edmund Randolph – Virg Gov.- officially headed that state’s delegation and introduced the Virg Plan. Refused to sign the Constitution – departed from Republican Gov. Roger Sherman – Instrumental in forging the Connecticut Compromise – Federalism

Missing? Jefferson – US Minister to France Adams – Principal write of Mass. Constitution – US Ambassador to Great Britain Henry –Distrust of proceedings Hancock -- Poor health Samuel Adams -- opposed the concept of the convention Richard Henry Lee -- lack of a bill of rights Delegation from Rhode Island

Rules Quorum of 7 states Delegates had to get permission to be absent if it damaged representation Delegates had to wait to be acknowledged; others had to show respect Could not speak twice on the same question Committees as necessary Decisions subject to reconsideration and change, until final plan was done Proceedings were secret Basis for civil discourse

Virginia plan Legislative, Judicial, Executive - Leg to appoint others Bicameral legislature Representation on population Congress would have power to make laws states could not Either house could propose legislation Power to nullify laws that conflicted with the Constitution