1) Representation and power balance: One key issue in the constitutional debate was the division of powers between the federal government and the states, and the question of representation. Some delegates supported a strong central government, while others feared it would infringe on states' rights. The debate between proportional representation (based on population) and equal representation for all states was particularly contentious.
2) Slavery: The issue of slavery was another major point of contention during the constitutional debate. Southern states wanted to protect the institution of slavery and ensure it was preserved in the new government. Meanwhile, some delegates from northern states opposed slavery and advocated for its eventual abolition. The compromise of the Three-Fifths Compromise, where enslaved individuals were counted as three-fifths of a person for purposes of taxation and representation, demonstrates the complexity and significance of the slavery issue in the debate.
3) Federalism vs. Anti-Federalism: The constitutional debate also centered around the balance of power between the federal government and individual states. Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, argued for a stronger central government that could effectively address the country's problems. Anti-Federalists, such as Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry, were concerned about the potential for tyranny and the erosion of individual liberties, advocating for stronger state governments. This debate led to the inclusion of the Bill of Rights, which guarantees certain individual rights and limits the power of the federal government.
what were 3 key issues in the constitutional debate
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