The Constitution Chapter 2

Constitution Definition A nation’s basic law. It creates political institutions, assigns or divides powers in government, and often provides certain guarantees to citizens.

The Origins of the Constitution The English Heritage: Enlightenment Era- The Power of Ideas John Locke’s influence Natural rights Consent of the governed Limited Government

The Articles of Confederation The first document to govern the United States No executive branch Congress had few powers States had too much power

The Government That Failed Shays’ Rebellion A series of attacks on courthouses by a small band of farmers led by Captain Daniel Shay _ showed that the articles needed more central powers.

Constitutional Convention New Jersey Plan- unicameral Congress w/ each state equally represented Virginia Plan- bicameral Congress (Federalist) state representation based on population or $$ Connecticut Compromise- bicameral congress

The Madisonian Model Figure 2.3

Anti- Federalist Federalist Small farmers, shopkeepers & laborers Wanted strong state gov. Weak national gov. Shorter terms Ruled by common man Protection of civil liberties Large landowners, wealthy merchants, professionals Weaker state gov. Stronger national gov. Longer terms Gov. by the elite Less concern for individuals liberties

Ratifying the Constitution Federalist Papers A collection of 85 articles written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison defending the Constitution. Bill of Rights The first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, drafted in response to some of the Anti-Federalist concerns about the lack of basic liberties.

Interpreting the Constitutional The Constitution as a living document Judicial Interpretation Strict Interpretation Loose interpretation Follow constitution word for word congress is only given the powers stated Follow a broad interpretation. Not to be taken word for word

A look at our Bill of Rights students will work in groups of 4 Each group will be given an amendment and will create a poster 1) with the definition of the amendment 2) a picture depicting its meaning Groups will present in class on Monday