AP GoPo - Chapter 2

What were the main debates about liberty leading up to the Constitutional Convention?

Debates centered on whether the new government would protect individual liberties while providing sufficient power for governance.

What was the Virginia Plan's proposal for representation?

The Virginia Plan proposed representation in the national legislature to be based on population.

What was the New Jersey Plan's proposal for representation?

The New Jersey Plan proposed each state to have equal representation in one chamber of Congress.

What is the Great Compromise?

The Great Compromise created a bicameral legislature with one house based on population and the other having equal representation for each state.

Who were the Federalists?

Federalists supported a strong national government, arguing it would control factions and manage public interest.

Who were the Antifederalists?

Antifederalists were opposed to a strong national government, advocating for more power to states and inclusion of a Bill of Rights.

What was the purpose of the Bill of Rights?

The Bill of Rights was proposed to ensure that the national government would not infringe upon individual rights.

What was Shays's Rebellion and why was it significant?

Shays's Rebellion was a revolt by ex-Revolutionary War soldiers against high taxes and debt; it highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

What powers were given exclusively to the national government?

The exclusive powers include printing money, declaring war, making treaties, and regulating commerce.

What were the main principles of the American version of representative democracy?

The main principles include the separation of powers and federalism, dividing power among various branches and levels of government.