The Constitutional Convention By: Ms. Adams Ms. Spivey

Introduction m/watch?v=S- bmAqhMrX4 m/watch?v=S- bmAqhMrX4

What led to the Constitutional Convention? The Declaration of Independence – Ratified by the Continental Congress on July 4 th, 1776 – Drafted by Thomas Jefferson – Asserted that all men were created equal – Man had the rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness

Brief History of the American Revolution Lasted from Fought between the British and the 13 colonies After 8 years the US Continental Army defeated the British with the help of allies Because of the abuse of powers by the crown prior to this period and during, it gave Americans the want for a government by the people

The Articles of Confederation Was an agreement between the 13 states that established the US as a confederation – Served as the first constitution – Ratified in 1777 Why did it fail? – Gave too much power to the states – Federal government could collect or levy taxes, could not regulate trade, and did not have the power to enforce laws – Unequal representation in congress

The Constitutional Convention Began on May 25 th, 1787 The purpose was to revise the Articles of Confederation The delegates of the convention came up with a whole new Constitution instead

Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist Federalist were in favor of: – Of the constitution being ratified – Protection of property rights – The Bill of Rights – A system of checks and balances Anti-Federalist were in favor of: – The Articles of Confederation – Strong state government – Fewer limits of popular participation – A Bill of Rights that protected the citizens against its government

The Great Compromise Known as the Connecticut Compromise – Resolved the issue of equal representation in Congress – The government would have two houses in Congress The House – The number of Representatives was based on the state’s population The Senate – Each state had two representatives

The Question of Slavery Article 1 Section 9 of the US constitution allowed for the importation of slaves up until 1808 The Constitution will not address the issue again until 1865

The Powers of the President Commander in chief of the military. Consultation with each of the executive departments. Grant reprieves and pardons. Make treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators concur Nominate ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States, whose appointments are not otherwise provided for in The Constitution. Fill vacancies during the recess of the Senate. On extraordinary occasions, convene or adjourn Congress Receive ambassadors and other public ministers Take care that the laws be faithfully executed Commission all the officers of the United States.

Activities for the Day Who, What, When, Where, Why Worksheet Enduring Understanding Assignment What did you learn today 3-5 sentences (Due at the end of class)