1. FRQ #2: Motives of the Framers What really happened in Philadelphia?

2. 1) Classical Thesis (19 th cent.) – Framers were an “assembly of demigods.” Constitution represents theoretical perfection. A. Competing Theses

3. 2) Beard Thesis (early 1900s) – Framers were counter- revolutionary economic elites. Constitution represents a coup by these elites to protect their power and property. A. Competing Theses (cont.)

4. 3) Roche Thesis – Framers were experienced, practical, democratic politicians committed to national unity. Constitution represents their best efforts at reconciling competing interests through a series of less- than perfect compromises. A. Competing Theses (cont.) Popular approbation! Popular approbation!

5. Debunking the Classical Thesis: The Constitution as a “bundle of compromises.” B. A Reform Caucus in Action

6. 1) The Great Compromise The great issue of the Convention: How will the states be represented in the new Congress? NJ Plan = unicameral with 1 vote/state. VA Plan = bicameral with Proportional Representation. (Big states) (Small states) Madison William Paterson

7. 1) The Great Compromise (cont.) Large States: Virginia Massachusetts Pennsylvania N. Carolina S. Carolina Georgia Small States: Delaware New Jersey Connecticut Maryland New York 6 6 5 5 Rhode Island New Hampshire

8. 1) The Great Compromise (cont.) Roger Sherman Creator of Great Compromise. Delegate from Connecticut.

9. 1) The Great Compromise (cont.) House of Reps House of Reps Senate Congress Based on population 1 vote/state2 votes/state

10. 1) The Great Compromise (cont.) James Madison: The Senate is a non-democratic body and “confessedly unjust.” CA WY H of R Senate 53 1 2 2 Yes No

11. 2) Electoral College Compromise Who should choose the President? 1) Congress 2) People 3) State Leg. Nov: Vote Dec: Choose electors. Jan: No majority? Same # as seats in Congress (H+S). H  Pres. S  V.P. (non-binding) Simple Majority wins!