1. The Constitution

2. The Convention
Congress met in Philadelphia to “revise” the Articles of Confederation.
Every state except Rhode Island sends delegates (55 total)
James Madison kept records of debates
Debates closed to public
Delegates were not allowed to speak about the proceedings outside of the building
The delegates soon decided to “throw out” the articles and write a new document.

3. The Constitutional Convention

4. Conflict and Compromise

5. Conflict and Compromise
New Jersey Plan
Legislature:
Representation:
Which States Supported:
Virginia Plan
Legislature:
Representation:
Which States Supported:
Great Compromise
Legislature:
Representation:
Which States Supported:

6. Conflict and Compromise

7. Ratification
In order to make the constitution official, 9 of the 13 states had to approve
Special elections were held
delegates were chosen by voters for a state convention
Those delegates would vote to approve or reject the constitution

8. Two Sides Federalists Antifederalists Supported the constitution
Believed a strong central government was needed
Believed separation of powers and check and balances would protect individual freedoms
Antifederalists
Disapproved of the constitution
Believed power should stay with individual states
Believed the Constitution did not go far enough to protect individual freedoms

9. Federalists
Led by George Washington, James Madison, and Alexander Hamilton
Were supported by urban centers and small states
Published a series of essays called “The Federalist”
Analyzed and explained the constitution to voters

10. Antifederalists Led by Patrick Henry and Samuel Adams
Supported by rural farmers and large states
Published “Letters from the Federal Farmer” to explain that they believed freedom of the press and religion needed to be protected

11. Another Compromise Antifederalists demanded a Bill of Rights
Federalists yielded, and promised a Bill of Rights would be added if the states ratified the Constitution

12. Ratification
After a series of debates, most of the states approved the Constitution
New government became official in 1789

13. Bill of Rights Added to the Constitution in 1791 First 10 Amendments
Secured individual freedoms and limited government power

15. Questions for Class Discussion
Did the Convention exceed its authority?  If the Convention did exceed its authority, should it have anyway?  
Would the United States have been better off if the Virginia Plan had been adopted as presented?  If the New Jersey Plan had been adopted?