Key Issues at the Constitutional Convention of 1787

Shays' Rebellion

1786-1787 uprising against economic injustices.

Nationalists of the 1780s

Advocates for a stronger national government.

Constitutional Convention

1787 meeting to address government weaknesses.

Virginia Plan

Proposed a bicameral legislature based on population.

New Jersey Plan

Proposed a unicameral legislature with equal state votes.

Connecticut Compromise

Established bicameral legislature with mixed representation.

Enumerated Powers

Specific powers granted to the national government.

Checks and Balances

System to prevent any branch from overpowering others.

Regulation of Trade

National government can tax imports, not exports.

Supreme Law of the Land

Article 6 states national laws take precedence.

State Powers

States retain powers not granted to the national government.

Fugitive Slave Clause

Required return of escaped slaves to owners.

3/5 Clause

Counted slaves as three-fifths for representation.

Slave Importation Protection

Allowed slave importation until 1808.

Federalists

Supported the Constitution and a strong national government.

Anti-Federalists

Opposed the Constitution, fearing central power.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments protecting individual liberties.

Betrayal of the Revolution

Debate on whether the Constitution upheld revolutionary ideals.