The Constitution and Bill of Rights

Question 1

The Debt Trap

Answer 1

The economic depression led to increased tax due to the high debts US owed, causing Americans and veterans to become broke.

Question 2

Shay’s Rebellion

Answer 2

Marches on Massachusetts courthouses during 1786 to stop trials for debt

• public opinion was on the rebels’ side
• led to decreased taxes
• laws on debt payments relaxed
• increased momentum for constitutional reform

Led to support for Philadelphia convention for constitutional reform.

Question 3

Weak Articles of Confederation

Answer 3

As the Articles of Confederation were weak due to being a “strong league of friendship”, 55 Delegates draft a new constitution in Philadelphia.

Females, African Americans, First Nations and enslaved people were still ignored.

All states agreed upon amendment of the Articles of Confederation.

Question 4

Annapolis Convention 1786

Answer 4

Delegates from 5 states met in Annapolis, being the first attempt to change the Articles of Confederation.
However the convention was too small so congress called for Philadelphia convention to revise the Articles.

Question 5

Philadelphia Convention

Answer 5

Attended by George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin.

Agreed upon the separation of powers (explained by Montesquieu, enlightenment thinker) as the revolution was about fighting against a powerful government.

Question 6

The Great Compromise

Answer 6

Allowed for a balance between the interests of all the states.
resulted in a bicameral system being agreed upon.

Question 7

Ratification

Question 8

Bill of Rights

Answer 8

George Mason called for a Bill of Rights
Alexander Hamilton argued against it
The federalists eventually came to accept the need for it

James Madison wrote it though considered it unecessary. It was eventually ratified in 1791.