Leaders Call for a New Constitution — Reading Comprehension

The United States faced serious problems after winning independence from Britain. The first national government, created under the Articles of Confederation, was designed to keep most power with the states and limit the authority of the central government. However, by the mid-1780s, it became clear that this system was not working effectively. Many leaders believed the Articles made the nation weak and unable to solve pressing issues such as economic instability, disputes between states, and the lack of a strong national defense.

These difficulties grew as states disagreed over trade and taxes. For example, some states printed their own money, which lost value quickly. Others taxed goods coming from neighboring states. This created confusion and made it hard for businesses to operate. The federal government, under the Articles, had no power to collect taxes or regulate commerce, so it could not fix these problems. As George Washington wrote, "We are one nation today and thirteen tomorrow," highlighting the lack of unity.

In response, delegates from twelve states gathered in Philadelphia in 1787 for the Constitutional Convention. The original goal was to revise the Articles of Confederation. However, many delegates soon agreed that a completely new government was needed. This decision created conflict among the delegates, as some feared a strong central government would threaten individual freedoms, while others believed a stronger government was necessary for the nation to survive.

Debates at the convention centered on how to balance state and national powers. Large states like Virginia wanted representation based on population, giving them more influence. Smaller states, such as New Jersey, argued for equal representation to protect their interests. The resulting solution, known as the Great Compromise, created a two-house Congress: the House of Representatives, based on population, and the Senate, with equal representation for each state.

Another major debate was over federalism—the division of power between the national and state governments. The newly proposed Constitution also included a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. Not all delegates agreed. Some, called Anti-Federalists, worried that the new Constitution gave too much power to the national government and did not protect individual rights. As a result, supporters of the Constitution promised to add a Bill of Rights after ratification.

In September 1787, the delegates signed the Constitution, which established a stronger central government while preserving important powers for the states. The new plan went to the states for approval, sparking debates in town halls and newspapers. Over time, most Americans came to support the new Constitution, believing it offered a better solution to the nation's challenges.

 Interesting Fact: Rhode Island was the only state that did not send delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

What was the first U.S. government called?

Where did the Constitutional Convention take place?

Which state did not attend the Convention?

Why did some leaders oppose a strong central government?

What did the Great Compromise create?

What was a major weakness of the Articles?

The Constitution was signed in 1787. True or false?

What does 'federalism' mean?