Exploring Slavery's Role in the Constitutional Convention

Why was slavery considered essential to the Southern economy?

• It was a way to avoid paying taxes.

• It was mandated by the federal government.

• It was a tradition passed down from Europe.

• It provided a cheap labor force for plantations.

What was the primary goal of the delegates at the Constitutional Convention?

• To abolish slavery.

• To expand the territory.

• To establish trade agreements.

• To build a new government.

How did the delegates at the Convention view the issue of slavery?

• They were all in favor of it.

• They were indifferent to it.

• They found it unavoidable and had to address it.

• They unanimously wanted to abolish it.

What did the founders recognize about slavery in relation to American ideals?

• It was a minor issue.

• It was a complete contradiction.

• It was a perfect match.

• It was irrelevant.

Why was the abolition of slavery in the Constitution considered problematic?

• The South had already abolished it.

• The North was against it.

• It was not a significant issue at the time.

• All states had slaves and some were moving towards abolition.

How did economic interests influence delegates' stances on slavery?

• They were indifferent to economic factors.

• They ignored economic interests.

• They protected slavery where it was integral to the economy.

• They uniformly opposed slavery.

What was the impact of John Rutledge on the draft constitution?

• He was indifferent to the issue of slavery.

• He advocated for immediate abolition.

• He opposed all forms of slavery.

• He included strong protections for slavery.

What was the reaction to Governor Morris's speech denouncing slavery?

• He received unanimous support.

• He faced opposition from most delegates.

• He was ignored by all delegates.

• He convinced everyone to abolish slavery.

Why did the Southern delegates insist on maintaining slavery?

• They had no economic interest in it.

• They wanted to expand it to the North.

• They felt it was a necessary evil imposed on them.

• They believed it was morally right.

What would have been the likely outcome if the Convention had abolished slavery?

• The Southern states would not have joined the Union.

• The Northern states would have seceded.

• The Constitution would have been ratified without issue.

• All slaves would have been freed.