The Constitutional Convention of 1787 and the Formation of the United States Constitution

The video discusses the Constitutional Convention of 1787, highlighting the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the need for a stronger federal system. Delegates met in Philadelphia, where George Washington was elected president of the convention. They developed a federal system with checks and balances, resolving representation issues with the Connecticut Compromise. The Constitution was signed in 1787 but faced opposition due to lack of protections, leading to the Bill of Rights. Full ratification occurred in 1790, making the U.S. Constitution the oldest national governing document.

What was a major weakness of the Articles of Confederation?

• It was ratified after the surrender at Yorktown.

• It allowed Congress to demand money from states.

• It provided a strong federal authority.

• It lacked the ability to enforce tax collection.

Which state did not send delegates to the Constitutional Convention?

• New York

• Massachusetts

• Rhode Island

• Virginia

Who was elected as the president of the Constitutional Convention?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

What was the Connecticut Compromise?

• A proposal for a unicameral legislature.

• A plan for proportional representation in both houses.

• A solution for equal representation in the Senate.

• A decision to have a single executive leader.

What was required for the Constitution to become fully binding?

• A unanimous vote by the delegates.

• Immediate addition of amendments.

• Approval by all 13 states.

• Ratification by 9 out of 13 states.

Why did some states initially oppose the Constitution?

• It was signed by only 38 delegates.

• It gave too much power to the states.

• It included too many amendments.

• It lacked protections for individual freedoms.

What did the First Congress adopt in 1789?

• The Bill of Rights

• The Federalist Papers

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Declaration of Independence

Which state was the last to ratify the Constitution?

• Virginia

• New York

• Rhode Island

• Massachusetts

What was the main reason for Rhode Island's initial opposition to the Constitution?

• Disagreement over representation.

• Opposition to federal control of currency.

• Preference for a unicameral legislature.

• Desire for a stronger executive branch.

What makes the U.S. Constitution unique in the world today?

• It is the newest national governing document.

• It is the oldest national governing document still in use.

• It was the first to include a Bill of Rights.

• It was ratified by all states immediately.