US Constitution: Result of Countless Compromises

Though the Americans had claimed victory over Britain in the American Revolution, the most difficult task was yet to come. Statesmen and delegates gathered to decide the future of the new nation. However, the delegates were torn over how this new nation should be organized. In 1777, all of the thirteen states ratified a new document called the Articles of Confederation, which, among other things, established thirteen sovereign states -- with their own governments and rights -- and one weak central government. By 1787, problems created by the Articles (such as an economic depression catalyzed by the inability of the national government to tax) could no longer be ignored. Thus the Constitutional Convention was called. Federalists, supporters of a strong federal government, presented their views, while opposing Antifederalists, supporters of sovereign states, explained their position. Delegates were also divided by the states that they represented: those from states with small populations...