what was the purpose of the constitutional convention
The purpose of the Constitutional Convention, which took place in Philadelphia in 1787, was to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and create a new framework for governing the United States. The Articles of Confederation, which had been in effect since 1781, established a weak central government that was unable to effectively address issues such as national defense, trade, and taxation. The convention aimed to draft a new constitution that would establish a stronger, more cohesive federal government while also safeguarding individual rights and preserving a balance of power between the national and state governments.
To understand the purpose of the Constitutional Convention, you can examine historical records, primary sources, and scholarly articles that shed light on the debates and intentions of the delegates. Reading books such as "The Creation of the American Republic, 1776-1787" by Gordon S. Wood or "Plain, Honest Men: The Making of the American Constitution" by Richard Beeman can provide a comprehensive analysis of the convention and its goals. Additionally, exploring the Federalist Papers, a series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, can provide valuable insights into the thinking behind the new constitution.