1. Chapter 2: The Constitution

2. The Problem of Liberty
The English Constitution was a collection of laws.

3. The Problem of Liberty The Declaration of Independence (DoI)
Written predominantly by Thomas Jefferson.
Listed specific complaints against the British.
Posted that unalienable rights (nature & Providence) were protected.

4. The Problem of Liberty Goals of the Revolution
Legitimize political authority.
Secure personal liberties.
Require the consent of the governed.
Make the legislature superior to the executive.

5. The Problem of Liberty Problems of the Articles of Confederation (AoC)
Could not levy taxes.
Could not regulate commerce.
One vote per state.

6. The Problem of Liberty Problems of the Articles of Confederation (AoC)
Nine of 13 to pass any measure.
No judicial system.
All 13 to amend the AoC.

7. Constitutional Convention
Shays’s Rebellion was the initial cause for the call of the convention.

8. Constitutional Convention
Virginia Plan
Proposed by Edmund Randolph.
A bicameral house based on population.

9. Constitutional Convention
New Jersey Plan
Proposed by William Paterson
A unicameral house with one vote each.

10. Constitutional Convention
Great Compromise or Connecticut Compromise
Proposed by Roger Sherman.
Created today’s House of Representatives and Senate (was chosen by the House)

11. Constitutional Convention
Three-fifths Compromise
Slaves were counted as 3/5s a person for representation in the House.
The same formula applied for taxation in the South.

12. The Constitution and Democracy
Basic Framework
The intent was to create a republic.
State legislators would elect the senate.
Electors would choose the president (not the people).

13. The Constitution and Democracy
Basic Framework
Judicial review was believed to be an intent of the framers to limit popular majority.
Amendments
Proposed by 2/3s of both houses.
National Convention
Requested by 2/3s of the states.
Three-fourths of the states to ratify.

14. The Constitution and Democracy
Key Principles
Federalism where the national government was superior to state government but allowed for the division of two government systems.
Enumerated/Delegated Powers were those given solely to the national government.
Reserved Powers were those only used by the state.

15. The Constitution and Democracy
Key Principles
Concurrent Powers are shared by both the state and federal governments.
Separation of Powers into three branches.
Factionalism would prevent domination.

16. The Constitution and Liberty
Federalists
They were in favor of the Constitution.
They were led by Madison, Hamilton, and Jay, the chief authors of The Federalist Papers.

17. The Constitution and Liberty
Antifederalists
Favored state government and feared centralization.
Madison’s Arguments
Large republics are safer.
Coalitions would need to be formed and would be more moderate.
It would prevent politicians or the people from abusing power.

18. The Constitution and Liberty
Antifederalists
They could not offer a counter- government.
Demanded a Bill of Rights.