 set up a stronger central government with the states more closely united, so the US could be one national, rather than thirteen little countries acting separately as they had under the Articles of Confederation

 set up a system of laws and courts that would make all men equal under the law and give all men equal opportunities for fair treatment if accused of a crime.

 to settle the problems, such as poor trade relations between states, and to prevent open fighting against state governments, as had been the case in Shays's Rebellion against Massachusetts, which was brought about by unfair debt laws.

 to have a strong national army and navy that could defend all the states. If a foreign country attacked any state, it would be defended by a national military force supported by all the states.

 to help provide a higher standard of living for the people of the United States through better government

 to protect the personal rights of all United States citizens for all time

 Rule of law  Republican form of government  Limited government  Separation of power  Federalism  Legislative power  Executive power  Judicial power  Amendment process