what inspired the Constitutional Convention in 1787
http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/convention1787.html
The Constitutional Convention in 1787 was inspired by various factors stemming from the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which governed the newly independent United States following the American Revolution. To delve into the specifics of what inspired the convention, we need to understand the context and the problems faced by the nation at that time.
1. Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation: The Articles of Confederation, adopted in 1781, established a weak central government with limited powers. It lacked the ability to effectively govern the young nation. Some key shortcomings included:
- Lack of centralized authority: The central government lacked the power to regulate commerce, levy taxes, or enforce laws, leading to economic and political turmoil.
- Inefficiency in decision-making: The Articles required unanimous consent from all 13 states to amend the document, making it difficult to address emerging challenges and make decisions promptly.
- Weak defense and security: The inability to raise a national army or enforce cohesive foreign policies weakened the United States' standing among other nations.
2. Economic challenges and interstate disputes: The post-revolutionary period brought economic difficulties, including inflation, trade imbalances, and interstate trade conflicts. These issues fostered a sense of urgency to strengthen the federal government and ensure a stable economic framework for the nation.
3. Influence of political thinkers: The Founding Fathers, influenced by Enlightenment ideals and political philosophy, such as John Locke's theory of natural rights and Montesquieu's idea of separation of powers, sought to design a more balanced and effective system of government. They aimed to create a republic that protected individual liberties while preventing tyranny.
4. Shays' Rebellion: In 1786, a farmer rebellion led by Daniel Shays in Massachusetts against high taxes and foreclosure of debts highlighted the weaknesses of the central government's ability to respond to domestic problems. This event served as a catalyst, emphasizing the need for a stronger central authority capable of maintaining domestic order.
5. Annapolis Convention: In 1786, a convention was held in Annapolis, Maryland, to address commercial issues among the states. Although the gathering did not achieve its original goals, it helped to foster the idea of a larger meeting to revise the Articles of Confederation.
Given these factors, the need to address the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation and create a more powerful central government capable of effectively governing the nation inspired the Constitutional Convention. The convention aimed to draft a new constitution that would establish a stronger federal government while preserving individual liberties and ensuring a balance of powers.