How was the Philadelphia Convention Organized? 1787

Who attended? 55 delegates (Selected by their state legislatures) 1. Ranged from age 26 to 81 years old. 2. Some were wealthy, most were not. 3. ¾ had served in Congress under the Articles of Conf. Philadelphia Convention/Constitutional Convention Group of men known as the Framers Each state had one vote.

George Washington Most respected and honored man in the country. Had led the Continental Army to victory over the British during the American Revolution. Initially refused the invitation to the convention. Unanimously elected president of the convention but DID NOT take an active role in the debates.

James Madison Lifelong commitment to freedom of religion. One of the framers of the Virginia State Constitution. Spent the winter before the convention studying ancient and modern political theory.

Benjamin Franklin 81 years old In poor health Internationally respected Had served as a diplomat between the colonists and the British government before the American Revolution

Alexander Hamilton From New York Washington’s aide during the Revolution Supported a strong national government Created the Federal Party and wrote ½ of the papers. The Federalist Papers helped secure the ratification of the Constitution.

WHO DID NOT go to the Convention? John Adam: was serving as U.S. ambassador to Great Britain Patrick Henry: Revolutionary leader who was suspicious and strongly opposed a strong national government. Refused to attend the convention supposedly saying, “I smell a rat.” John Hancock Samuel Adams Rhode Island refused to send any delegates

What Do You Think? YES…write this down What criteria would you use to select a group of people to draft a constitution today? Think about… age religion education past experiences/jobs

The Rules 1.Delegates from at least seven states had to be present each day at the convention. 2.A delegate had to get permission to be absent if it meant their state wouldn’t have a representative. 3.While a delegate was speaking, other members could not pass notes, hold side conversations, or read a book or pamphlet. 4.A delegate was not allowed to speak more than twice on the same question. He could not speak the second time until every other member had a fist opportunity to speak on the subject. 5.NO DECISION had to be final until the plan was complete…always up for revision.

Why were the convention proceedings held in secret? The Delegates thought… Free exchange of ideas Free to express their real opinions but also change their minds in response to good arguments. Thought it would have a greater chance of being accepted if people didn’t know about the arguments while it was debated.

What Do You Think? YES…write this down Which of the rules do you think was the most important? Why? Do you agree with the decision to keep the proceedings secret? Why or why not?

Committees Solutions to difficult issues 1. Representation in Congress 2. Provisions for Executive and Judicial Branches 3. How to elect the national president 4. Style to prepare the final language Convention lasts nearly four months!