The Constitution

The Constitution

1. Context to the Constitution

   • July 4, 1776-The Declaration of Independence
   • March 2, 1781-Articles of Confederation
   • 1787 Meeting in Philadelphia
     • To review the Articles of Confederation- ended up writing a completely new set of rules. Connecticut Compromise reconciled concerns of larger and smaller states over representation in Congress.
   • 1789-90 Federal government established
     • George Washington elected first President. First Cabinet had four members. First Congress met in New York. 1790 First Supreme Court
   • 1791 Bill of Rights added

2. Key Facts

   • The Framers agreed the Constitution on behalf of 13 original states at Philadelphia in 1787.
   • It had to be ratified by 9 states and came into effect in 1789.
   • • The Bill of Rights was added in 1791
   • • There have been a total of 27 amendments including the Bill of Rights

3. Principles of the Constitution