M5. Forming a Government: Key Terms

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Constitutional Convention

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A meeting held in 1787 to create a new constitution for the United States.

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Virginia Plan

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A proposal for a bicameral legislative branch with representation based on population.

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New Jersey Plan

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A proposal for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state.

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Great Compromise

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An agreement providing a dual system of congressional representation, combining the Virginia and New Jersey Plans.

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Three-Fifths Compromise

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An agreement that three-fifths of the slaves in any state would be counted for population and taxation purposes.

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Popular sovereignty

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The principle that political authority belongs to the people.

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Legislative Branch

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The branch of government that makes laws.

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Executive Branch

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The branch of government that enforces laws.

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Judicial Branch

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The branch of government that interprets laws and administers justice.

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Checks & Balances

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A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches.