Explain the role of the Continental Congress in the formation of the U.S. Constitution.

The members of the Continental Congress met to revise the Articles of Confederation and ended up approving a new constitution.

The members of the Continental Congress opposed the U.S. Constitution because they wanted states to keep their powers.

The Continental Congress voted for George Washington to become the first president under the U.S. Constitution.

The Continental Congress was formed by writers of the U.S. Constitution.

1 answer

The role of the Continental Congress in the formation of the U.S. Constitution was significant. The Continental Congress served as a platform for delegates from the thirteen colonies to come together and discuss the issues faced by the new nation. Initially, the purpose of the Continental Congress was to coordinate the resistance against British rule during the Revolutionary War. However, as the war progressed, the Congress became increasingly involved in shaping the future governance of the United States.

The members of the Continental Congress recognized the shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation, the governing document that preceded the U.S. Constitution. They realized that a stronger central government was necessary to effectively address the challenges facing the nation. Consequently, in 1787, the Continental Congress convened a constitutional convention in Philadelphia to revise the Articles of Confederation.

Instead of merely revising the existing framework, the delegates at the constitutional convention, including many members of the Continental Congress, opted to draft an entirely new constitution. This decision was largely influenced by the recognition of the need to create a more unified and efficient system of government.

While not all members of the Continental Congress supported the new constitution, many did, and their support was crucial in the approval and ratification process. The Continental Congress played a vital role in advocating for and promoting the constitution among the states. It was through their efforts that the constitution was eventually accepted and ratified.

Additionally, the Continental Congress was involved in the selection of the first president of the United States under the new constitution. They voted unanimously to elect George Washington as the first president, demonstrating their faith in his leadership and their commitment to the new system of government.

Overall, the Continental Congress played a pivotal role in the formation of the U.S. Constitution. Its members recognized the need for a stronger central government, advocated for a new constitution, and actively participated in the drafting, approval, and implementation processes.