1. Constitutional Convention
Get your folder and have a seat

2. Opening Address - Gov. Edmund Randolph of VA
“(1) the Confederation produced no security against foreign invasion… (2) the [Confederate] government could not check the quarrels between states nor a rebellion in any… (3) there were many advantages which the United States might acquire [get], which were not attainable under the Confederation, such as a productive impost [ a tax on goods coming from other countries] – counteraction of the commercial regulations of other nations – pushing of commerce… (4) the [Confederate] government could not defend itself against the encroachments [improper intrusions] from the states…”
Which of the weaknesses identified by Governor Randolph do you feel was most important? Explain your answer.

3. Call to Revise the Articles
There were many problems facing the country under the Articles of Confederation
Merchants feared the loss of trade
Army officers feared the loss of their back pay
Lenders feared the loss of their loans to the government
Many people thought it was time for a change…

4. Constitutional Convention
The 13 states met to discuss a new Constitution to replace the Articles of Confederation

5. Ratification
So now that we’ve agreed on what it is, we have to vote on it…
Ratification means “to make official”
The Constitution would not go into force until was ratified (officially approved) by 9 out of 13 states
Each state held a convention and debated over whether the Constitution should be ratified

6. Federalists Anti-Federalists Approved of the Constitution
Warned if it was not approved the country might split apart or be invaded
Said it would not become oppressive because of safeguards
Did not need a “Bill of Rights”
Opposed the Constitution
Feared it would establish a central government just as oppressive as the British had been
Feared it would threaten personal liberties
Wanted to add a “Bill of Rights”

7. Classwork Read Document A and B (handout)
Answer the questions on the graphic organizer
Add the paper into your notebook