The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was an agreement reached during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that established a bicameral legislature in the United States. It combined elements from both the Virginia Plan, which favored representation based on population, and the New Jersey Plan, which called for equal representation for each state. This compromise was crucial in balancing the interests of both larger and smaller states in the formation of the new government.
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The Great Compromise created a dual system of representation, where the House of Representatives would be based on population and the Senate would have equal representation with two senators per state.
The compromise was essential in gaining support from both larger states, which preferred population-based representation, and smaller states, which wanted equal representation to protect their interests.
Delegates Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth from Connecticut played key roles in formulating and promoting the compromise.
The agreement helped pave the way for the Constitution's ratification by ensuring that all states felt represented in the legislative process.
The Great Compromise was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it laid the foundation for the structure of Congress that still exists today.
Review Questions
How did the Great Compromise address the conflicting interests of larger and smaller states during the Constitutional Convention?
The Great Compromise effectively balanced the interests of larger and smaller states by establishing a bicameral legislature. In this system, representation in the House of Representatives is based on state populations, favoring larger states, while the Senate allows for equal representation with two senators from each state, satisfying smaller states. This dual approach was vital in fostering cooperation among diverse state interests and ensuring a unified framework for governance.
Evaluate the impact of the Great Compromise on the ratification process of the U.S. Constitution.
The Great Compromise significantly influenced the ratification process by addressing key concerns from both large and small states regarding representation. By creating a legislative framework that offered a balanced approach, it garnered broader support for the Constitution among delegates and state representatives. The inclusion of this compromise was pivotal in persuading skeptics to endorse a new government structure that represented both populous and less populous states equitably.
Assess how the Great Compromise reflects broader themes of negotiation and compromise in American political history.
The Great Compromise exemplifies fundamental themes of negotiation and compromise that are woven throughout American political history. It demonstrates how differing perspectives can lead to conflict but also highlights the ability to find middle ground to achieve collective goals. This moment not only shaped Congress's structure but also set a precedent for future political negotiations in America, reinforcing the importance of compromise as a vital mechanism for governance and unity amid diversity.
Related terms
Bicameral Legislature: A legislative body with two chambers or houses, which in the U.S. consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Virginia Plan: A proposal at the Constitutional Convention that advocated for a strong national government with representation based on state population.
New Jersey Plan: A proposal that called for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state, regardless of population.