The Constitutional Convention and the new US Constitution
Who was involved? Think about the people or groups who were involved and affected by this event
The Constitutional Convention, held in Philadelphia from May 25 to September 17, 1787, involved several prominent figures who played a significant role in shaping the new US Constitution.
1. Founding Fathers: The most well-known figures involved in the Convention were the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson (although he did not attend the Convention), and many others. These individuals were influential political leaders and thinkers who had played key roles in America's fight for independence and the establishment of the United States.
2. State Delegates: Delegates from each of the 13 states at the time were involved in the Convention. These individuals were chosen by their respective states to represent their interests and deliberate on constitutional matters. Notable state delegates include George Mason, John Dickinson, Roger Sherman, Gouverneur Morris, and Elbridge Gerry.
3. Federalist and Anti-Federalist Groups: During the Convention, two major political factions emerged. The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, were advocates of a strong central government and supported the ratification of the new Constitution. On the other hand, the Anti-Federalists, including Patrick Henry and George Mason, were concerned about the potential abuse of power by the federal government and favored a more limited central authority. Both groups played critical roles in the debates and discussions at the Convention.
4. African Americans and Slavery: Although not directly involved in the Convention, the issue of slavery greatly affected the discussions and compromises made during the Convention. The Constitution's original composition counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation and taxation purposes, solidifying the institution of slavery and its impact on African Americans' rights and freedoms.
5. Women and Indigenous Peoples: Unfortunately, women and Indigenous peoples were not directly involved or represented in the Convention. The Constitution, as originally drafted, did not grant women the right to vote or ensure equal rights and opportunities for them. Similarly, the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples were not sufficiently addressed, leading to ongoing struggles for Native Americans throughout US history.
Overall, while various groups were involved and affected by the Constitutional Convention, the primary participants were the Founding Fathers, state delegates, Federalists and Anti-Federalists, and those impacted by the issues of slavery, women's rights, and Indigenous peoples' rights.