Creation of the Constitution

Constitutional Convention

1787 meeting to draft a new constitution.

Articles of Confederation

First governing document, deemed ineffective.

George Washington

Presided over the Constitutional Convention.

James Madison

Key architect of the Constitution.

Benjamin Franklin

Influential statesman at the convention.

Alexander Hamilton

Promoted a strong federal government.

Thomas Jefferson

Diplomat absent from the convention.

John Adams

Diplomat absent from the convention.

Patrick Henry

Opposed the Constitution, fearing federal power.

The Great Compromise

Merged Virginia and New Jersey plans.

Virginia Plan

Proposed two houses based on population.

New Jersey Plan

Proposed one house with equal representation.

Senate

Each state has equal representation.

House of Representatives

Representation based on state population.

3/5ths Compromise

Counted 3/5 of slaves for population.

Federalists

Supported a strong federal government.

Anti-Federalists

Opposed Constitution, fearing government overreach.

Ratification Compromise

Included Bill of Rights to appease Anti-Federalists.

Bill of Rights

First ten amendments protecting individual liberties.