Question

Why did the Great Compromise and the Three-Fifths Compromise involve so much debate and discussion at the Constitutional Convention?

The states were not ready to give up their independence to an all-powerful national government.
The states believed the Articles of Confederation were working and did not need to be replaced.
Each state was most concerned for its own interests and needs.
Each state was certain that cooperation would lead to another war.

Answer 1

Each state was most concerned for its own interests and needs.

Explanation: Large vs. small states and slave vs. free states had conflicting interests about representation and taxation. States pushed for rules that would protect their political power (population-based vs. equal representation, whether slaves counted), so delegates had to negotiate compromises.