How did the existence of slavery affect the development of the Articles and Constitutional governments?
http://www.google.com/search?aq=f&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=US+Constitution+and+slavery
Read widely and take good notes.
Here are some interesting articles:
http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy&hl=en&q=effect+of+slavery+on+the+Articles+of+Confederation&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&pbx=1&psj=1&bav=on.2,or.&fp=d3539bde5dec0acd
http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy&hl=en&q=effect+of+slavery+on+the+Constitution&aq=&aqi=&aql=f&oq=&pbx=1&psj=1&bav=on.2,or.&fp=d3539bde5dec0acd
The existence of slavery had a significant influence on the development of the Articles of Confederation and the subsequent Constitutional governments in the United States. To understand the impact, let's break it down further:
1. Articles of Confederation: The Articles of Confederation, the first constitution of the United States, were established in 1781. Slavery was prevalent in many states during this period. However, the Articles of Confederation did not directly address the issue of slavery, mainly due to the fear that discussing it could divide the already fragile union. This avoidance of the slavery issue highlighted the Confederation's inherent weaknesses since it failed to provide a unified stance on a matter of such ethical and political significance.
2. Constitutional Convention: Recognizing the need for a stronger central government, delegates gathered in Philadelphia in 1787 to draft a new constitution, which became known as the United States Constitution. Slavery was one of the most contentious issues discussed during the Constitutional Convention.
3. Three-Fifths Compromise: One of the major decisions made at the Constitutional Convention was the establishment of the Three-Fifths Compromise. The agreement stated that enslaved individuals would be counted as three-fifths of a person for the purposes of determining representation in the House of Representatives and taxation. This compromise highlighted the deeply ingrained presence of slavery in the fabric of American society and compromised the principles of equality and representative democracy.
4. Fugitive Slave Clause: The Constitution also included the Fugitive Slave Clause, which required the return of escaped slaves to their owners. This provision solidified the protection and perpetuation of slavery within the newly formed national government.
5. Slave Trade Compromise: Additionally, the Constitution addressed the transatlantic slave trade, establishing a provision that prohibited Congress from banning the importation of slaves until 1808. This compromise reflected the economic interests of states involved in the slave trade, ensuring the continuation of the institution for an extended period.
In summary, the existence of slavery significantly influenced the development of the Articles of Confederation and Constitutional governments in several ways. The avoidance of the issue in the Articles reflected the reluctance to address the contentious matter, while the Constitutional Convention grappled with it, resulting in compromises that upheld and protected slavery. These compromises compromised principles of equality and hindered the nation's ability to fully address the immorality and lasting consequences of the institution.