U.S. History: Constitutional Convention

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Questions and Answers

Who were the delegates at the Constitutional Convention of 1787?

A mix of men and women from various backgrounds

Delegates from every state in America

All white men not chosen by popular election (correct)

A diverse group elected by the people

What was the main purpose of the Constitutional Convention?

To write an entirely new constitution (correct)

To discuss issues within the state legislatures

To fix the Articles of Confederation

To hold a popular vote on the Articles of Confederation

Which state did not send any delegates to the Constitutional Convention?

Rhode Island (correct)

New York

Massachusetts

Virginia

How were the newly proposed constitutional changes to be ratified?

Through popular conventions in at least nine states Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of government do some critics want the Constitution to address?

Creating an American version of a parliamentary system Signup and view all the answers

What common agreement existed regarding essential rights before the Declaration of Independence?

Rights to life, liberty, and property Signup and view all the answers

How did the delegates choose to conduct the Convention?

In private with no press coverage Signup and view all the answers

What suggestion is made regarding modern conventions and communication?

Delegates should have the freedom to communicate via modern technology Signup and view all the answers

What phrase did Jefferson change in his formulation of rights in the Declaration?

Property Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary concern of most Americans during the American Revolution?

Political issues and political liberties Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT reflect a complaint listed by Jefferson against George III?

Economic disparities among citizens Signup and view all the answers

What did the Declaration of Independence emphasize as unalienable rights?

Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness Signup and view all the answers

How did the majority of citizens view their property during the late-18th century?

As a valued personal asset Signup and view all the answers

What economic condition was prevalent during the American Revolution?

Decrease in trade activity Signup and view all the answers

What role did war profiteers play during the conflict?

They attempted to manipulate the currency Signup and view all the answers

What was the general socio-economic status of most Americans at the time of the Revolution?

Most were self-employed as farmers or artisans Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Constitutional Convention (1787)

Held in Philadelphia with all delegates being white men; not elected by popular vote.
Notable absentees included Patrick Henry and the state of Rhode Island which sent no delegates.
The convention was conducted in secrecy with no press coverage.
Aimed to address deficiencies in the Articles of Confederation, ultimately resulting in the creation of a new Constitution.
Popular conventions in at least nine states needed to ratify the new Constitution, rather than state legislatures.

Perspectives on Constitutional Change

Critics suggest a new constitutional convention to amend perceived defects in the Constitution.
Diverse opinions exist regarding potential reforms, such as adopting a parliamentary system similar to the UK.
Some advocate for a weakened federal government, proposing measures like balanced budgets or revenue caps.
Key questions include the delegate selection process, their number, limitations on convention scope, and media coverage of the proceedings.

Rights and Ideology of the American Revolution

Essential rights enshrined prior to Jefferson's Declaration of Independence included life, liberty, and property.
Jefferson notably shifted "property" to "the pursuit of happiness" in the Declaration.
The American Revolution was not solely a class struggle; many citizens owned property and were self-employed.
Economic struggles were prominent post-war, with higher taxes and disrupted trade; thus, the conflict was viewed politically rather than economically.

Jefferson's Declaration of Independence

Jefferson asserted self-evident truths about equality and unalienable rights as foundational for government.
Governments derive their powers from the consent of the governed; people can alter destructive governments.
Subsequent paragraphs of the Declaration list specific grievances against King George III, all focused on violations of political liberties, not social or economic conditions.
The Declaration is seen as both a philosophical assertion and a detailed legal complaint against British policies.

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Description

Explore the key events and figures of the Constitutional Convention held in Philadelphia in 1787. This quiz examines the delegates' motives, the absence of certain states, and the outcomes of the meeting aimed at addressing the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.