1. Founding Fathers of the United States Government
George Washington
Chosen to be President of Constitutional Convention. Felt Articles of Confederation were too weak and a new plan of government was necessary with a stronger central government.
James Madison
“Father of the Constitution”. Responsible for taking so many notes during Constitutional Convention – drafted the 1st copy of the US Constitution. Supported a strong central government.
Alexander Hamilton
Pushed for strong central government in the new Constitution. Said there had to be a way to collect money to support a central government.
Patrick Henry
Representative from Virginia. Opposed the US Constitution. Feared the Constitution would take too much power from the states. Insisted on adding the Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution.
Edmund Randolf
Helped created the Virginia Plan. 3 branches of government (Separation of Powers) and a system of Checks and Balances.
George Mason
Refused to sign the US Constitution because it did not start off with a Bill of Rights for the people.
Charles Pinckney
Youngest member to attend the Convention. Pushed for a strong central government and supported slavery.
Roger Sherman
Helped create Great Compromise during Constitutional Convention.