The Founding Fathers and the Birth of American Democracy
One of the primary debates was over the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan, which proposed different structures for the legislature. The Virginia Plan, put forward by James Madison, called for a bicameral legislature with representation based on population. This plan was favored by larger states as it would give them more influence in the government.
On the other hand, the New Jersey Plan, proposed by William Paterson, advocated for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for all states. This plan was supported by smaller states who feared being marginalized by the larger states under the Virginia Plan.
Another key issue was the division of powers between the states and the federal government. Some Founding Fathers, like Alexander Hamilton, believed in a strong centralized government to maintain stability and unity. Others, such as Thomas Jefferson, argued for greater states' rights to protect individual liberties.
Additionally, there was a contentious debate over the protection of individual rights. Many Founding Fathers, led by Thomas Jefferson, insisted on including a Bill of Rights in the Constitution to safeguard freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and press.