The Constitutional Convention of 1787

The Constitutional Convention of 1787, also known as the Philadelphia Convention, was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from May 25 to September 17, 1787. The delegates who attended the convention were tasked with revising the Articles of Confederation, the first constitution of the United States, which had proven to be ineffective in governing the young nation.

However, as the convention progressed, it became clear that a complete overhaul of the Articles of Confederation was needed. The delegates, representing 12 of the 13 states (Rhode Island did not send any delegates), ultimately decided to draft a new constitution that established a stronger central government with more power to regulate commerce, levy taxes, and maintain a standing army.

The resulting document, the United States Constitution, laid the foundation for the federal government as we know it today. It established the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial), outlined the powers and responsibilities of each branch, and established a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Overall, the Constitutional Convention of 1787 was a critical turning point in American history, as it led to the creation of a more stable and effective government that has endured for over two centuries.