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Key Compromises of the U.S. Constitution
Aug 27, 2024
U.S. Constitution Lecture Notes
Introduction
Constitutional Convention took place in the summer of 1787.
12 states sent representatives to amend the Articles of Confederation.
James Madison led the effort to draft a new constitution.
Focus on negotiation and compromise in drafting.
Major Compromises
The Great Compromise
Virginia Plan:
Advocated for a stronger central government.
Bicameral legislature based on population.
New Jersey Plan:
Suggested amending the Articles of Confederation.
Wanted a unicameral Congress, one vote per state.
Connecticut Compromise:
Established a bicameral legislature:
House of Representatives based on population.
Senate with equal representation (two senators per state).
Grand Committee formed to work out the compromise.
Tax and revenue bills to originate in the House of Representatives.
The Electoral College
Compromise between direct election by citizens and election by Congress.
Citizens vote for electors, who then elect the president.
The Three-Fifths Compromise
Debate on whether slaves counted as population for representation.
Southern states wanted slaves counted as people for representation.
Northern states opposed, citing previous southern stance on slave rights.
Result: every five slaves count as three people for representation.
Compromise on the Importation of Slaves
Northern states wanted to ban the slave trade.
Southern states opposed any ban.
Compromise allowed slave trade continuation for 20 years post-ratification.
Banned on the first possible day, signed by Thomas Jefferson.
Bill of Rights
Occurred during ratification debate.
Anti-Federalists demanded a Bill of Rights.
Madison introduced amendments in the first session of Congress, leading to the Bill of Rights.
Amendment Process
Article 5 describes two methods for amendment:
Two-thirds of both houses propose and three-fourths of states ratify.
Two-thirds of state legislatures propose, and three-fourths of states ratify.
Conclusion
Constitution provides a framework but leaves many issues open-ended.
Allows for future amendments and adaptations.
Reminder to check out additional resources.
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