Compromise
What is a compromise?
A situation where people with different ideas each give up something to agree on a solution.
What is a debate?
A discussion where people share different opinions and reasons about an issue
What is federalism?
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units (states).
Why was the Constitution written?
To address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and create a stronger governance framework.
What was Shays's Rebellion?
An armed uprising in 1786-1787 protesting economic injustices and the lack of government response, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
What was the Great Compromise?
An agreement to create a bicameral legislature, balancing representation for both large and small states.
Who were the Federalists?
Supporters of the Constitution who favored a strong central government, including figures like Alexander Hamilton
Who were the key Federalists?
Notable figures included Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, who advocated for a strong national government.
How has the Constitution evolved?
Through amendments and interpretations that adapt to changing societal values and needs.
What were the Articles of Confederation?
The first constitution of the United States that created a weak central government and was replaced by the current Constitution.
What was the Three-Fifths Compromise?
An agreement that counted each enslaved person as three-fifths of a person for representation purposes.
Who were the Anti-Federalists?
Opponents of the Constitution who feared too much power would go to the central government and wanted more state rights.
What powers are reserved for the states?
Responsibilities such as regulating intrastate commerce, establishing schools, and issuing licenses.
How did the Constitutional Convention address slavery?
Through compromises like the Three-Fifths Compromise, which balanced representation between free and enslaved populations.
Why did the Constitutional Convention meet?
To revise the Articles of Confederation and address issues such as governance and representation.
What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights?
To ensure individual rights and limit government power by listing specific prohibitions on governmental authority.
What were the main arguments against the Constitution?
Concerns included the lack of a Bill of Rights and the fear of a powerful central government replacing state authority.
What powers are shared between state and national governments?
Powers such as levying taxes, borrowing money, and administering courts
What role did George Washington play in the Convention?
He presided over the Convention and lent credibility to the proceedings, helping to unify the delegates.
Who was James Madison?
A key figure in drafting the Constitution and is often referred to as the "Father of the Constitution."
How did compromises shape the Constitution?
Compromises helped address the differing views of Federalists and Anti-Federalists, resulting in a balanced framework for governance.
How did debates influence the Bill of Rights?
Debates highlighted the need for explicit rights, leading to the first ten amendments to protect individual freedoms.
How does federalism relate to school governance?
Just as federal and state governments share powers, schools have rules set by both district and state authorities.
How do the debates of the time still affect us today?
They laid the foundation for ongoing discussions about rights, representation, and the balance of power.
What was the outcome of the Constitutional Convention?
The creation of the U.S. Constitution, establishing a stronger federal government and incorporating compromises on key issues.