1. Creating the Constitution

2. The Weak Articles By mid-1780’s, two schools of thought have emerged… –Articles are okay… can be slightly revised/amended. Afraid that “freedom” and “democratic gains” would be lost with a stronger federal government. Supported by Henry, Adams, Clinton –Articles are not doing the job Need stronger national government More prestige; power Supported by Jay, Hamilton, Madison Congress realizes there is an immediate need for a stronger national government following Shays’ Rebellion

3. Starting From Scratch May 1787 – Convention is called with the intent to suggest changes to the Articles. –Led by Alexander Hamilton –Immediately decide to draw up a new document. Property holders and wealthy are largest supporting group. –Want strong nation to protect their wealth and other interests.

4. Constitutional Convention Never before or after will there be as many strong political talents in the same room. –An assembly of “demi-gods.” Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, John Dickinson –55 delegates from 12 states (Rhode Island) George Washington selected as President of the Convention. –Believe is that if Washington is there, there will be no undermining the Revolution. Convention will meet in secrecy behind closed doors; then release the document. –Who’s not there? John Jay, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine, Patrick Henry

5. Changes to Legislative Branch Debate breaks down between large states (NY, VA) and small states (MD, NJ) –New Jersey Plan Desire Unicameral Congress –1 state = 1 vote –Much like Articles –Virginia Plan Desire Bicameral Congress –Representation should be based on population. Almost give up compromising several times.

6. Changes to Legislative Branch cont… Connecticut Compromise or Great Compromise –Upper House (Senate) has two representatives from each state. –Lower House (House of Representatives) has representatives based on population.

7. Changes to Executive Branch Desired one individual as chief –King? President? Electoral College –Did not want people to have direct vote –Too much democracy = mob rule

8. The Issue of Slavery Southern states wanted slaves counted as population. –Not fair to North. –3/5 Compromise Slave counts as 3/5 of a person in terms of population totals. Slave Trade Compromise –Foreign slave trade can be outlawed in 20 years. Will be abolished in 1808.

10. Establishment of Federalism Federalism –Power is split between the national and state governments. Reserved Powers –Powers explicitly left to states Delegated Powers –Powers given to national government

11. Ratification Decision is made that if 9 of 13 states approve, it should go into effect. Anti-Federalists –Against Constitution Federalists –For Constitution –Federalist Papers Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote series of papers in New York supporting the Constitution.

12. Ratification continued…. Every state is supposed to call a convention to vote for or against. Critics of Constitution argue there are no guarantees of personal rights. –Will only support if a Bill of Rights is added Jefferson, Mason were very insistent. Mid 1788 – Constitution is ratified –All states ultimately approve 1791 – Bill of Rights is added.