Constitutional Convention

Three Conflicts Representation -proportional v. equal rep. Opposition between North & South -Tariffs, slavery Power -balance/separation of power

The Great Compromise Each side gave up something they wanted to reach this agreement Congress divided into two parts – Senate (equal representation) – House of Reps (proportional representation)

Balance of Power Enumerated Powers  Powers specifically listed in constitution Congress:  Provide for the “general welfare” – Declare war – Impose and collect taxes  “necessary and proper” -raise and support army

How do branches check power of Congress? Congress has two houses Supreme Court- law unconstitutional President- Veto bills, appointment members to Supreme Court

State Approval Framer’s approved Madison’s plan: Social Contract to get the Constitution approved. 9 of the 13 states had to ratify the constitution.

The Federalists People who supported the constitution Asked states to organize ratifying conventions quickly Wrote a series of articles supporting ratification

Federalistsv. Anti-federalists Led by Alex Hamilton, James Madison, George Washington, John Jay and Ben Franklin. Led by Patrick Henry and George Mason, Edmund Randolph, and Elbridge Gerry. Some Attended the Convention but refused to sign the Constitution

Anti-Federalists People who opposed ratifying the Constitution Mistrusted government in general and feared strong national government. – They felt it created a government the people could not control

Ratification Debates Debates in states lasted ten months Many arguments for and against the constitution. Three basic issues: 1.) whether the constitution would maintain a republican government 2.) Whether the national government would have too much power 3.) Whether a bill of rights was needed

Ratification continued… Outcome: Bill of Rights created - Protection of basic rights of the American People

With a partner identify arguments for - Federalists -Anti- federalists Create a bumper Sticker indicating one argument for each

Growth of Political Parties