Understanding the Three Plans Proposed at the Constitutional Convention of 1787

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 was a pivotal moment in American history, leading to the creation of the United States Constitution. At this pivotal gathering, several plans were proposed for the structure of the new government. This article will delve into the details of three main plans: the Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan, and the Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise. Each of these plans played a crucial role in shaping the U.S. Constitution and addressing the needs of both large and small states.

The Virginia Plan

The Virginia Plan was proposed by James Madison, a key figure in the formation of the United States. This plan called for a strong national government with a specific structure comprising three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. It suggested a bicameral legislature, where both the lower and upper houses would be based on population, thus favoring larger states.

The Virginia Plan was presented by Edmund Randolph but was largely the work of James Madison. It laid the foundation for the framework of the Constitution. This plan aimed to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which had proven inadequate in governing the newly independent states.

The New Jersey Plan

Responding to the Virginia Plan, William Paterson introduced the New Jersey Plan. This plan aimed to amend the Articles of Confederation rather than entirely replace them. The New Jersey Plan proposed a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state, regardless of size. This plan was favored by smaller states, as it ensured that their voices were heard equally in the legislative process.

Despite serious discussions about this alternative plan at the Convention, it never gained majority support. The Convention ultimately considered the New Jersey Plan as a means to balance the interests of all states, but it never reached the level of support needed to be adopted.

The Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)

The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was a pivotal agreement that combined elements of both the Virginia and New Jersey Plans. It proposed a bicameral legislature with the House of Representatives based on population, which favored larger states, and the Senate providing equal representation for each state, which favored smaller states.

This plan, which was proposed by Roger Sherman, managed to find a middle ground and was ultimately adopted. The Great Compromise demonstrated the Convention's commitment to balancing the interests of both large and small states, and it laid the groundwork for the modern American political system.

The Hamilton Plan and its Relevance

Alongside these main plans, there were other proposals made during the Convention. One notable proposal came from Alexander Hamilton, who presented the Hamilton Plan. This plan suggested that the Senate and the President be elected for life, essentially setting up an elective monarchy. The Hamilton Plan was not taken seriously by the Convention, as it was met with polite attention but ultimately ignored.

It is rumored that Hamilton's proposal was only intended to stir up debate between the Virginia and New Jersey Plans. Shortly after his speech, the Convention dropped the New Jersey Plan in favor of the Great Compromise. The Hamilton Plan, while not reflected in the Constitution, remains an interesting footnote in the history of the U.S. political system.

Conclusion

The Constitutional Convention of 1787 was marked by heated debate and the introduction of several significant plans. The Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan, and the Great Compromise were all crucial in shaping the U.S. Constitution and addressing the diverse needs of the newly formed states. These plans not only laid the groundwork for the modern American political system but also exemplified the spirit of compromise and cooperation.