What persuaded the delegates to the Virginia convention to finally ratify the Constitution?
The delegates at the Virginia Ratifying Convention were persuaded to finally ratify the Constitution due to several key factors:
1. The inclusion of the Bill of Rights: One of the primary concerns of the opponents of the Constitution was the lack of protections for individual rights. Prominent Virginians like George Mason and Patrick Henry opposed the Constitution and argued that a Bill of Rights was necessary. However, after assurances from James Madison and other Federalists that the Bill of Rights would be added, many delegates were convinced to vote in favor of ratification.
2. The Federalist Papers: During the Convention, a series of essays known as the Federalist Papers were published in various newspapers, explaining and defending the provisions of the Constitution. These essays, written by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay, were influential in swaying public opinion and helping assuage concerns about the powers of the federal government.
3. Compromises on key issues: The Virginia delegates had concerns about the balance of power between the central government and the states. The Constitution addressed these concerns through compromises like the division of powers among three separate branches (executive, legislative, and judicial), as well as the establishment of a federal system where powers were shared between the national and state governments.
4. National and international pressure: Virginia, as one of the largest and most influential states, felt pressure to join the Union. The belief that the Constitution was necessary for the stability and success of the new nation, along with the knowledge that other states were ratifying it, played a role in convincing the Virginia delegates.
5. Personal and political considerations: Some delegates were initially opposed to the Constitution but were influenced by personal relationships with other delegates or political expediency. Influential figures like George Washington, George Wythe, Edmund Randolph, and even James Madison's political skill and persuasive arguments played a crucial role in convincing the delegates to ratify the Constitution.
Overall, a combination of guarantees for individual rights, compromises on powers, the persuasive power of the Federalist Papers, political pressure, and personal relationships tipped the balance in favor of ratification at the Virginia convention.