Summarize in 7 sentences: After the Declaration of Independence, Americans no longer had Great Britain's king as their ruler, and most people were eager to have more representation... Summarize in 7 sentences: After the Declaration of Independence, Americans no longer had Great Britain's king as their ruler, and most people were eager to have more representation in making the laws that governed them. One idea that was very important to Americans was the concept of popular sovereignty, which meant that the people, not a king, were the highest authority. As leaders of the new nation grappled with this concept of popular sovereignty, there were differences of opinion among the 13 states about how their governments should work. Pennsylvania created a state constitution in 1776 that allowed greater rights to citizens, including voting without property ownership, and established a one-house legislative branch. In contrast, South Carolina's 1778 constitution limited voting rights to only 10% of the population and did not list individual rights like Pennsylvania's. Massachusetts ratified its constitution in 1780, including a bill of rights and allowing for amendments over time, but allowed the legislature to set voting requirements. The U.S. Constitution, created in 1787, drew on these state constitutions, reflecting important ideas about representation and governance.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to summarize the main points regarding the development of state constitutions after the Declaration of Independence and their influence on the U.S. Constitution. We will identify key aspects of each state's constitution and how they reflect the broader ideals of governance and representation that emerged as the new nation took shape.
Answer
After independence, Americans emphasized popular sovereignty, with varying approaches across states. The 1787 U.S. Constitution integrated these principles.
After the Declaration of Independence, Americans were eager for more representation in government, no longer having the British king as ruler. Popular sovereignty became important, meaning the people had the highest authority. States like Pennsylvania allowed greater citizen rights, while South Carolina was more restrictive. Massachusetts incorporated a bill of rights into its 1780 constitution. The U.S. Constitution of 1787 drew from these state constitutions, integrating ideas on representation and governance.
Answer for screen readers
After the Declaration of Independence, Americans were eager for more representation in government, no longer having the British king as ruler. Popular sovereignty became important, meaning the people had the highest authority. States like Pennsylvania allowed greater citizen rights, while South Carolina was more restrictive. Massachusetts incorporated a bill of rights into its 1780 constitution. The U.S. Constitution of 1787 drew from these state constitutions, integrating ideas on representation and governance.
More Information
The U.S. Constitution was significantly influenced by the state constitutions formed after independence, which served as testing grounds for ideas about democracy and governance.
Sources
- The Consequences of the American Revolution – U.S. History I - fscj.pressbooks.pub
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
