The Critical Period: Honors US History II

Federalism

The division of power between the national government and the state governments.

Sovereignty

The final say or more power.

The Philadelphia Convention (1787-1788)

A convention with 55 delegates from 12 states where George Washington was elected president, aimed for free discussion away from public criticism.

James Madison

Known as the Father of the Constitution; he was thorough, had a plan, and always structured discussions.

The Virginia Plan

Drafted by Madison, proposing proportional representation based on state population and a bicameral legislature.

Proportional Representation

Representation in government based on the population of the state; higher population leads to more representation.

The New Jersey Plan

William Patterson's response to the Virginia Plan, advocating for a unicameral legislature with equal representation.

Unicameral Legislature

A legislature with a single legislative chamber.

The Great Compromise

Agreement to establish a bicameral legislature with a House of Representatives based on proportional representation and a Senate with equal representation.

⅗ Compromise

Agreement that enslaved people would count as ⅗ of a person for taxation and representation purposes.

Fugitive Slave Clause

Provision stating that escaped slaves must be returned to their state of origin.

International Slave Trade

Prohibition against discontinuing the international slave trade for 20 years.