What factors contributed to the convening of the Constitutional Convention in 1787?

before constitution....there articles of confederation — in effect, first constitution of united states. drafted in 1777 same continental congress passed declaration of independence, articles established "firm league of friendship" between , among 13 states.
created during throes of revolutionary war, articles reflect wariness states of strong central government. afraid individual needs ignored national government power, , abuses result such power, articles purposely established "constitution" vested largest share of power individual states.
under articles each of states retained "sovereignty, freedom , independence." instead of setting executive , judicial branches of government, there committee of delegates composed of representatives each state. these individuals comprised congress, national legislature called articles.
congress responsible conducting foreign affairs, declaring war or peace, maintaining army , navy , variety of other lesser functions. articles denied congress power collect taxes, regulate interstate commerce , enforce laws.
eventually, these shortcomings lead adoption of u.s. constitution. during years in 13 states struggling achieve independent status, articles of confederation stood them in stead.
adopted congress on november 15, 1777, articles became operative on march 1, 1781 when last of 13 states signed on document.

what factors contributed convening of constitutional convention in 1787 led drafting , ratifying of united states constitution. major flaws of previous government charter under articles of confederation.

Arts & Humanities History Next