Honors HIST 172: Constitutional Convention

The thirteen colonies broke away from Britain's tyranny, in 1776, because of the lack of representation in the British parliament and the absence of the liberty they were promised by the British constitution. The colonists’ strong cultural, historical, and economic ties to Great Britain didn’t stand in their way of fighting against their British rulers to seek representation and liberty. During the long war between the colonies and Britain, the Revolutionary War, Americans had to quickly create and implement a new government and a constitution that would provide them the essential rights they deserved as Americans, but with the quick formation of such a constitution, the Articles of Confederation, it was inevitable that they would'nt take into consideration many aspects of a government that make one function properly and effectively. The debt of the Revolutionary War was tremendous, but the new government lacked the power it needed to make any real change or levy taxes because of the Articles of Confederation. The Articles of Confederation didn’t grant the central government enough power over the states so the states were basically “little nations” of their own, which did not help in uniting the new nation. This imbalance of power and societal unrest led to rebellions breaking out in the states such as Shay's Rebellion. The states tried to handle the situation by using militias; however, this caused more problems and eventually led to heated debates about what a government really is. The Annapolis Convention strived to solve the issues, such as debt, of this new government but because of the absence of delegates from many states, it failed to make any real change. This leads to the point in history where George Washington calls for the Constitutional Convention of 1787 to create a stronger, more adept constitution and form of government for the nation. [[Join the Constitutional Convention]] [[Sit back and See how this thing plays out]]

Your name is Jimmy Jacobs. You have chosen to join your fellow Federalists from New York which includes the one and only Alexander Hamilton! You are a lawyer and politician who fights for the Federalist side. [[Onward to the Convention!!!]]

Your name is Charles Williamson. You have chosen to join your fellow Anti-Federalists from Virginia. Some famous anti-federalists include: Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and George Mason. You are a land owner, slave owner, and a Law Professor at the College of William and Mary. [[Onward to the Convention...]]

Choose your state [[Virginia]] Virginia, a Southern colony, was founded in 1607 by John Smith and John Ralfe. Its most famous towns include Jamestown and Richmond. Economic wealth depended largely on plantation agriculture of tobacco, wheat, and corn. For this reason, it held the largest slave population amongst the 13 colonies. [[New York]] New York, a Middle colony, was founded in 1626 by Peter Minuit. Due to the mild climate, economy and trade were concentrated in the plantation of crops mainly, wheat. Manufactured materials that were exported from their port cities includes: plows, kettles, and other tools.

Your name is Harry Belmont Jr. Rhode Island, a New England colony, was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams. Breweries and distilleries producing rum, as well as fishing, became the main sources of wealth for this colony because of the long winters. Being the smallest colony, your state's whale oil was a valuable resource that was popularly exported. Rhode Island wasn't a part of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 but was a part of the ratification process later in history (but that's for another game). Because you weren't involved in the Constitutional Convention you won't be asked to cast your vote during the debates; you will just be observing! Are you sure you want to just observe? No, I'm going to [[Join the Constitutional Convention]] Yes, let's [[proceed to see what happened during the Constitutional Convention]]

The Constitutional Convention began in May 1787. The convention started with electing the leaders, choosing committees and those who would head them, and the rules for the debates that would take place in the convention. The first debate that took place was about the "big picture" for our nation: the power of the government and how the federal government should take shape.... [[How are they going to deal with representation in Congress?|To the First Debate]]

You are now in the Constitutional Convention as an Anti-Federalist. You just went over the leaders of the convention, the different committees and those who head them, and the general rules for the debates to come. Get ready, the first debate is coming up and it's about the "big picture" for our nation: the power of the government and how the federal government should take shape.... [[To the First Debate.]]

You are now in the Constitutional Convention as a Federalist. You just went over the leaders of the convention, the different committees and those who head them, and the general rules for the debates to come. Get ready, the first debate is coming up and it's about the "big picture" for our nation: the power of the government and how the federal government should take shape... [[To the First Debate!]]

Madison once said a famous line, "if men were angels, no government would be necessary". Men are not angels. They desire power, and if there is power to be had, someone will aspire to have it. Therefore a strong national government is necessary to get things done. Too much power would mean a way for corruption to blossom; too little power would result in nothing getting accomplished. The goal of the Constitutional Convention and the debates that took place was to find a way to balance the power within the national government in relation to the states. It's May 30, 1787: You are discussing and going to vote on whether or not the federal government should consist of three different parts: executive, legislative, and judiciary. A key term being used when referencing these parts is "supreme". Do you think that this is what's best for your future nation? [[Yes to the three parts.]] [[No to the three parts.]]

Madison once said a famous line, "if men were angels, no government would be necessary". Men are not angels. They desire power, and if there is power to be had, someone will aspire to have it. Therefore a strong national government is necessary to get things done. Too much power would mean a way for corruption to blossom; too little power would result in nothing getting accomplished. The goal of the Constitutional Convention and the debates that took place was to find a way to balance the power within the national government in relation to the states. It's May 30, 1787: You are discussing and going to vote on whether or not the federal government should consist of three different parts: executive, legislative, and judiciary. The key term "supreme" is being used when referencing these parts. Do you think that this is what's best for your future nation? [[Yes to the three parts!]] [[No to the three parts!]]

Madison once said a famous line, "if men were angels, no government would be necessary". Men are not angels. They desire power, and if there is power to be had, someone will aspire to have it. Therefore a strong national government is necessary to get things done. Too much power would mean a way for corruption to blossom; too little power would result in nothing getting accomplished. The goal of the Constitutional Convention and the debates that took place was to find a way to balance the power within the national government in relation to the states. The first real debate began on May 30, 1787, and it began with the discussion and vote on the national government consisting of three different "supreme" parts: executive, legislative, and judiciary. This resolution was passed in a 6-1-1 vote. The debates then proceeded on how representation should work within these different parts of the government. [[What did they vote for?|To the next debate]]

You seemed to have voted like your other Anti-Federalists in Virginia and got the resolution passed! Congratulations young delegate... You're making history. Now we must debate on how representation should work within the legislative branch... [[To the next debate.]]

You seemed to have been confused when asked to vote on the three branches but that's okay! We'll keep you on track... The majority of the delegates voted to approve this resolution because they felt this would be the best decision for the nation. It was a 6-1-1 vote so majority ruled! Now that the three different parts of the federal government were approved... We must debate on how representation should work within the legislative branch... [[To the next debate.]]

On May 31, 1787: It was decided that the new nation would have a bicameral legislature with two different governing bodies. The Senate and the House of Representatives made up the legislative branch. With this newly introduced way of government, you must decide how states will be represented in each piece of the legislative branch. There has been much debating on the pros and cons of having a set number of representatives versus representatives based on the population of the state... Now it's time for you to decide on how many Senate representatives there should be for the states... Should the Senate have representatives based on [[Population.]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state.]]

You seemed to have voted like half of your fellow Federalists in New York and in the end, got the resolution passed! Congratulations young delegate... You're taking your shot like Hamilton always says! But remember... History has its eyes on you and we aren't finished yet. Now we must debate on how representation should work within the legislative branch... [[To the next debate!]]

You seemed to have voted like half of your fellow Federalists in New York and in the end, got outvoted so the resolution passed! That's okay young delegate... It was for the best anyways! But remember... History has its eyes on you and we aren't finished yet. Now we must debate on how representation should work within the legislative branch... [[To the next debate!]]

On May 31, 1787: It was decided that the new nation would have a bicameral legislature with two different governing bodies: The Senate and the House of Representatives made up the legislative branch. With this newly introduced way of government, you must decide how states will be represented in each piece of the legislative branch. There has been much debating on the pros and cons of having a set number of representatives versus representatives based on the population of the state... Now it's time for you to decide on how many Senate representatives there should be for the states... Should the Senate have representatives based on [[Population!]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state]]

On May 31, 1787: The Convention voted on a bicameral legislature, which meant that the legislative body would be divided into two different "houses": the Senate and the House of Representatives. Now that the Convention knew that they were going to have a two house legislative branch, they had to decide on representation in those two houses. This debate lasted for a while and was trying to decide what would be best for every state in this newly founded nation. The Convention ended up reaching a decision titled: The Great Compromise!!! [[What in the world is the Great Compromise?]]

The Great Compromise, or also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was the only way that the large states and small states (aka everyone) could agree on how representation should work in the bicameral legislature. The Great Compromise states that... The Senate would have two representatives from each state, no matter what their population was. The House of Representatives would have representatives from each state based on the state's population. The Great Compromise satisfied the small states because they all would have equal votes in the Senate but also satisfied the larger states because of the large population those states had to represent in the House of Representatives. BUT because the House of Representatives was based on the state's population... the Convention had to decide on who would be considered a part of the population. This brought up the topic of slaves and their role in determining the number of representatives. [[Let's go see if the delegates decided to count slaves in the population or not?]]

On June 11, 1787, Connecticut delegates, Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth, open the Constitutional Convention with something called the three-fifths rule. They explain that representation should be given to slaves when apportioning Representatives in Congress and that each slave will be counted as three-fifths compared to white men, who are counted as one. James Madison Jr., a Virginia delegate, was one of the main speakers during this heated debate and said, “We must deny the fact that slaves are considered merely as property, and in no respects whatever as persons. The true state of the case is, that they partake of both these qualities; being considered by our laws, in some respects, as persons, and in other respects, as property.” Northern colonies believed that counting slaves as three-fifths will not be fair since they did not possess slaves. This would only give an advantage to southern states and create contradictions with previous work discussed amongst the convention. Southern colonies believed this newly proposed three-fifths rule served to equalize the different population sizes each colony acquired. They pointed out how northern colonies such as New York and Massachusetts had too much representation. [[See the results of this heated debate]]

On July 16, 1787: The majority of the delegates voted that the Senate would be the house that hosts a constant number of delegates per state, no matter how small or large the state is... so you were outvoted but don't worry there is plenty more to vote on! How should the number of delegates for the House of Representatives be determined? [[Representation based on population!]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state!!]]

On July 16, 1787: You voted with the majority of the delegates! You decided that the Senate would consist of two representatives per state, no matter how large or small the state is. Now, what about the House of Representatives? How should the number of representatives for the House of Representatives be determined? [[Representation based on population!]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state!!]]

Well young delegate, you seem to have voted with the latter because the House of Representatives needs to be based on population so we can accommodate the larger states like we have the smaller states with the Senate. On July 16, 1787: This was the day at the Constitutional Convention where the Connecticut Compromise was approved in a 5-4-1 vote. This compromise can also be called the "Great Compromise" due to the highly debated topic at the convention of how states should be represented in this newly established government. You may have voted wrong this time but I think after a break, you'll be good as new! [[Take a Break!]]

The current hot and humid Philadelphia summer, led delegates to scurry to nearby taverns usually with their corresponding colonial delegates. You make your way into the Indian Queen tavern late at night with Alexander Hamilton, a Federalist, just like you. [[Buy a beer and sit with Alexander Hamilton!]]

On July 16, 1787: The majority of the delegates voted that the Senate would be the house that hosts a constant number of delegates per state, no matter how small or large the state is... so you were outvoted but don't worry there is plenty more to vote on! How should the number of delegates for the House of Representatives be determined? [[Representation based on population.]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state..]]

On July 16, 1787: You voted with the majority of the delegates! You decided that the Senate would consist of two representatives per state, no matter how large or small the state is. Now what about the House of Representatives? How should the number of representatives for the House of Representatives be determined? [[Representation based on population.]] Or [[A constant number of representatives for each state..]]

Well young delegate, you have seemed to have voted with the latter because the House of Representatives needs to be based on population so we can accomodate the larger states, like we have the smaller states with the Senate. On July 16, 1787: This was the day at the Constitutional Convention where the Connecticut Compromise was approved in a 5-4-1 vote. This compromise can also be called the "Great Compromise" due to the highly debated topic at the convention of how states should be represented in this newly established government. You may have voted wrong this time but I think after a break, you'll be good as new! [[Take a Break.]]

On July 16, 1787: Yes! You voted with the majority and decided that the House of Representatives would consist of representatives based on a state's population. This favored the larger states but it didn't upset the small states since they had the Senate to be represented "equally". July 16th, 1787 was the day in the Convention where the Connecticut Compromise was approved in a 5-4-1 vote. This compromise can also be called the "Great Compromise" due to the highly debated topic at the convention of how states should be represented in this newly established government. Well, congratulations again! I think you've earned yourself a little break! [[Take a Break!]]

On July 16, 1787: Yes! You voted with the majority and decided that the House of Representatives would consist of representatives based on a state's population. This favored the larger states but it didn't upset the small states since they had the Senate to be represented "equally". July 16th, 1787 was the day in the Convention where the Connecticut Compromise was approved in a 5-4-1 vote. This compromise can also be called the "Great Compromise" due to the highly debated topic at the convention of how states should be represented in this newly established government. Well congratulations again! I think you've earned yourself a little break! [[Take a Break.]]

The current hot and humid Philadelphia summer, led delegates to scurry to nearby taverns usually with their corresponding colonial delegates. You make your way into the Indian Queen tavern late at night with Alexander Hamilton, a Federalist, different from you. [[Buy a beer and sit with Alexander Hamilton.]]

As you sit, Alexander Hamilton remarks, “A strong government must prevail in our new nation.” You, Jimmy Jacobs, nod and add that Nathaniel Gorham brought good ideas but you feel unsteady about such an unseen form of government. Alexander Hamilton reminds you that the British crown was worse than this proposed strong government suggested by Nathaniel Gorham (Massachusetts delegate). Alexander Hamilton angrily stands up to get another beer. This statement strikes you and later you see Hamilton leave the tavern in the direction of Miss Daley’s boardinghouse. Although you are tired from the long debate today, you want to keep talking. You look across the room and see other delegates from the Constitutional Convention. [[Sit with a Connecticut and Pennsylvania delegate!]] [[Sit with a Massachusetts delegate, Nathaniel Gorham!]]

Connecticut delegate, Roger Sherman, notices your presence and introduces himself. Other delegates recognize you from past meetings at the Constitutional Convention and amongst them was Connecticut delegate, Oliver Ellsworth. Sherman and Ellsworth quickly share that after today's debate surrounding national representation, the convention had forgotten about slave representation. You are shocked that this was not discussed in today's debate. Roger Sherman stands up to leave the tavern with Oliver Ellsworth and says, “We need to prepare for tomorrow, Jimmy! We think you do too.” On that note, you leave the tavern and dread going to tomorrow's debate for, you know southern and northern states will have heated arguments about the topic of slave representation. When arriving to your boarding house you are too tired to do anything else so you immediately go to sleep. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate!]]

You walk up while the Massachusett delegates: Nathaniel Gorham and Elbridge Gerry, who had differing views in this last debate of whether or not to have a strong central government, were in the middle of an argument. They both do not seem to notice your presence until you decide to call out Nathaniel Gorham’s name. When you finally get his attention, you let him know that you support his idea of having a strong government for reasons Alexander Hamilton had previously shared to you. Also, you ask him if he plans to propose any other topics at tomorrow's meeting. He chuckles and responds, “I have done enough today. Tomorrow, I wish to see you present something of your own.” On that note, you leave the tavern and feel inspired to bring something new to the debate tomorrow. When arriving at your boarding house you are too tired to do anything else so you immediately go to sleep. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate!]]

It’s June 11, 1787: Connecticut delegates, Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth, open the Constitutional Convention with something called the three-fifths rule. They explain that representation should be given to slaves when apportioning Representatives in Congress and that each slave will be counted as three-fifths compared to white men, who are counted as one. [[Keep listening!]]

James Wilson, a delegate from Pennsylvania, questioned the principles in which this slave representation was grounded and asked, “Are slaves admitted as citizens? If so, then why are they not an equal to white citizens? Are they admitted as property? If so, then why isn't other property admitted into the computation?” James Madison Jr., a Virginia delegate, begins to answer delegate Wilson’s questions and defends this new proposition named "the three-fifths rule". He says, “We must deny the fact that slaves are considered merely as property, and in no respects whatever as persons. The true state of the case is, that they partake of both these qualities; being considered by our laws, in some respects, as persons, and in other respects, as property.” [[Side with James Wilson!]] [[Side with James Madison Jr!]]

You, Jimmy Jacobs, have sided with James Wilson because you are a lawyer and do not own slaves. Thus, implementing the three-fifths rule would only aid southern states that have slaves. If the three-fifths rule passes, the state of New York will be less represented in the House of Representatives. You want more representation in the House of Representatives! [[Continue siding with James Wilson!]]

You, Jimmy Jacobs, have sided with James Madison Jr. for now but recognize that you are a lawyer and do not own slaves. Thus, implementing the three-fifths rule would only aid southern states that have slaves. If the three-fifths rule passes, the state of New York will be less represented in the House of Representatives. You want more representation in the House of Representatives! [[Switch sides!]]

As you continue hearing delegate Madison, you write some notes about the three-fifths rule. You share these notes with your fellow New York delegates and stand up to speak. “Counting slaves as three-fifths will not be fair for New York. We do not possess slaves and will never want to. This newly proposed three-fifths rule is absurd and should not partake in this new nation. It will only give advantage to southern states and it creates contradictions with previous work discussed amongst this convention.” [[Take a break!]] [[Keep debating!]]

You see Madison taking notes on what you had said and he stands up again. Other delegates do so too and you take the opportunity to go to the restroom. [[Return to debate!]]

Five hours pass and the debate is still intense; the mosquitoes in the room and the hot weather do not make it any easier. You want this to end but you remind yourself of the importance of it all. As you take a seat, you arrive in the midst of South Carolina delegate, Charles Pinckney. He remarks, “Slaves has made us face great burdens in the past years. Special consideration should be given to us slave-holders in South Carolina, who carry with this liability.” New York delegate, Gouverneur Morris exclaimed, “This new nation shall not include such terms Delegate Pinckney! What a fool you are to have slaves!!” Like yourself, other delegates look exhausted and collectively call it time to vote for or against this three-fifths rule. Do you vote Yay or Nay? [[Yay, to the three-fifths rule!]] [[Nay, to the three-fifths rule!]]

Five hours pass and the debate is still intense; the mosquitoes in the room and the hot weather do not make it any easier. You want this to end but you remind yourself of the importance of it all. As you take a seat, you arrive in the midst of a South Carolina delegate's, Charles Pinckney, speech. He remarks, “Slaves have made us face great burdens in the past years. Special consideration should be given to us slave-holders in South Carolina, who carry this liability.” New York delegate, Gouverneur Morris exclaimed, “This new nation shall not include such terms Delegate Pinckney! What a fool you are to have slaves!!” Like yourself, other delegates look exhausted and collectively call it time to vote for or against this three-fifths rule. Do you vote Yay or Nay? [[Yay, to the three-fifths rule!]] [[Nay, to the three-fifths rule!]]

Well done, Jimmy! The three-fifths rule, also known as the Three-Fifths Compromise, has passed with a 9-2 vote. In the Constitution, the Three-Fifths Compromise is found in Article 1, Section 2. “Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several states . . . according to their respective Number, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free Persons, including those bound for service for a Term of Years [white servants], and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons.” [[Be proud and leave Independence Hall]]

Sorry, Jimmy. The three-fifths rule, also known as the Three-Fifths Compromise, has passed with a 9-2 vote. In the constitution, the Three-Fifths Compromise is found in Article 1, Section 2. “Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several states . . . according to their respective Number, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free Persons, including those bound for service for a Term of Years [white servants], and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons.” [[Don’t stress too much and leave Independence Hall]]

Most delegates made their way to the City Tavern, also called the Merchants' Coffee House. The musicians playing inside makes you decide to dine here this evening. [[Go in the City Tavern!]]

Since you left the convention a bit early you see no familiar faces and begin to dine alone enjoying the good music. [[Keep eating!]]

James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay seem to be arriving together. [[Invite them to your table!]] [[Leave the City Tavern because you want to sleep!]]

All three greet you and sit at your table. Hamilton whispers something to Madison and you feel you're in a weird position to be in. Hamilton lowered his tone of voice and said the three of them recently began to work on a paper to push the ratification of the constitution. John Jay mentions, “We want to keep it a secret.” You nod and see Madison bring some papers onto the table. “Do you want read the beginning?” [[Say yes!]]

When arriving to your boarding house you write in your journal and fall asleep while reading a philosophy book. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate!!]]

They ask for your opinion and you frankly tell them what you think. You continue to converse with all three delegates and then decide to leave. These papers, known now as The Federalist Papers, later became published under pseudonym “Publius” although written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay. It consisted of 85 essays that were published in New York state newspapers: The New York Packet and The Independent Journal. This helped persuade doubtful New Yorkers to support the ratification of the Constitution as well as other colonies as the newspapers spread. [[Leave the City Tavern!]]

You read: Federalist 1 To the People of the State of New York: After an unequivocal experience of the inefficiency of the subsisting federal government, you are called upon to deliberate on a new Constitution for the United States of America. The subject speaks its own importance; comprehending in its consequences nothing less than the existence of the union, the safety and welfare of the parts of which it is composed, the fate of an empire in many respects the most interesting in the world. It has been frequently remarked that it seems to have been reserved to the people of this country, by their conduct and example, to decide the important question, whether societies of men are really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend for their political constitutions on accident and force. If there be any truth in the remark, the crisis at which we are arrived may with propriety be regarded as the era in which that decision is to be made; and a wrong election of the part we shall act may, in this view, deserve to be considered as the general misfortune of mankind. [[Give the paper back to them!]]

When arriving to your boarding house you write in your journal and fall asleep while reading a philosophy book. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate!!]]

As you sit, Alexander Hamilton remarks, “A strong government must prevail in our new nation.” You, Charles Williamson, nod and add that Nathaniel Gorham brought good ideas but you feel unsteady about such an unseen form of government. Alexander Hamilton reminds you that the British crown was worse than this proposed strong government suggested by Nathaniel Gorham (Massachusetts delegate). Alexander Hamilton angrily stands up to get another beer. This statement strikes you and later you see Hamilton leave the tavern in the direction of Miss Daley’s boardinghouse. Although you are tired from the long debate today, you want to keep talking. You look across the room and see other delegates from the Constitutional Convention. [[Sit with a Connecticut and Pennsylvania delegate.]] [[Sit with Massachusett delegate, Nathaniel Gorham.]]

You wake up and head to Independence Hall. Once you have arrived, you hear the Committee of Style reporting its latest version of the constitution. The committee ends its report with a question "Is there anything that still needs debating?" Geroge Mason, a Virginia delegate, stands to introduce a debate. Mason calls for the creation and inclusion of a Bill of Rights in the new constitution. He urges the necessity for an enumerated bill of rights in the new constitution to protect and officially declare the rights of the people. Mason argues that a Bill of Rights would "give great quiet to the people." And “might be prepared in a few hours.” Mason keeps insisting on the matter of creating a Bill of Rights until he gets the support of a Massachusets delegate. Elbridge Gerry agrees with Mason and follows with the request that a Committee shall be formed to prepare a Bill of Rights. Roger Sherman opposes the proposal of creating a Bill of Rights and argues that, “the State Declarations of Rights are not repealed by this Constitution and, being in force, are sufficient.” The President of the Convention, George Washington, askes the delegates to vote on this matter. [[You vote for creating a Bill of Rights!]] [[You don't see the necessity for a Bill of Rights, and thus vote against it!]]

You, Charles Williamson, have sided with James Wilson for now but, recognize you are a plantation owner and slave owner. Thus, implementing the three-fifths rule would help gain more representation for your state of Virginia and would'nt allow northern states to abolish slavery. You do not want to lose your plantation and slaves for it has brought you great economic wealth and a great social standing. [[Switch sides.]]

You, Charles Williamson, have sided with James Madison Jr. because you are a plantation owner and slave owner. Thus, implementing the three-fifths rule would help gain more representation for your state of Virginia and would'nt allow northern states to abolish slavery. You do not want to lose your plantation and slaves for it has brought you great economic wealth and a great social standing. [[Continue siding with James Madison Jr.]]

As you continue hearing delegate Madison, you write some notes about the three-fifths rule. You share these notes to your fellow Virginia delegates and stand up to speak. “Delegate Madison, I agree with you and invite all those present here to support. This newly proposed three-fifths rule serves to equalize the different population sizes each colony acquires. It is evident that northern colonies such as New York and Massachusetts have too much representation. I speak for all slaveholders in Virginia that this three-fifths rule must pass and if not here then maybe we will no longer partake in this brawl!” You pause dramatically and add, “Now, I want to address those opposed to this three-fifths rule. You need votes to pass and I know with certainty that you will not receive them from Virginia as well as other slave-holding colonies. We have less than a month in conventions and I will pity to end so early. Reconsider, fellow delegates.” [[Take a break.]] [[Keep debating.]]

As you continue hearing delegate Madison, you write some notes about the three-fifths rule. You share these notes to your fellow Virginia delegates and stand up to speak. “Delegate Madison, I agree with you and invite all those present here to support this newly proposed three-fifths rule; for it serves to equalize the different population sizes of each colony. It is evident that northern colonies such as New York and Massachusetts have too much representation. I speak for all slaveholders in Virginia that this three-fifths rule must pass and if not here then maybe we will no longer partake in this brawl!” You pause dramatically and add, “Now, I want to address those opposed to this three-fifths rule. You need votes to pass and I know with certainty that you will not receive them from Virginia as well as other slave-holding colonies. We have less than a month in conventions and I will pity to end so early. Reconsider, fellow delegates.” [[Take a break.]] [[Keep debating.]]

You see Madison grin at your eloquent speech and stands up again. He reads from his notes and you take the opportunity to go to the restroom. [[Return to debate.]]

Five hours pass and the debate is still intense; the mosquitoes in the room and the hot weather do not make it any easier. You want this to end but you remind yourself of the importance of it all. As you take a seat, you arrive in the midst of South Carolina delegate, Charles Pinckney's rant. He remarks, “Slaves has made us face great burdens in the past years. Special consideration should be given to us slave-holders in South Carolina, who carry with this liability.” New York delegate, Gouverneur Morris exclaimed, “This new nation shall not include such terms Delegate Pinckney! What a fool you are to have slaves!!” Like yourself, other delegates look exhausted and collectively call it time to vote for or against this three-fifths rule. Do you vote Yay or Nay? [[Yay, to the three-fifths rule.]] [[Nay, to the three-fifths rule.]]

Well done, Charles! You decided to defend the southern states and the new augmented representation for Virginia. The three-fifths rule, also known as the Three-Fifths Compromise, has passed with a 9-2 vote. In the constitution, the Three-Fifths Compromise is found in Article 1, Section 2. “Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several states . . . according to their respective Number, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free Persons, including those bound for service for a Term of Years [white servants], and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons.” [[Be proud and leave Independence Hall.]]

Sorry, Charles. The three-fifths rule, also known as the Three-Fifths Compromise, has passed with a 9-2 vote. In the constitution, the Three-Fifths Compromise is found in Article 1, Section 2. “Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several states . . . according to their respective Number, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free Persons, including those bound for service for a Term of Years [white servants], and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons.” [[Don’t stress too much and leave Independence Hall.]]

Most delegates made their way to the City Tavern, also called the Merchants' Coffee House. The musicians playing inside makes you decide to dine here this evening. [[Go in the City Tavern.]]

James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay seem to be dining together. [[Join them.]] [[Eat by yourself. No more politics for today.]]

When arriving to your boarding house you begin to write a letter to your wife back in your plantation and then go to sleep. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate..]]

You wake up and head to Independence Hall. Once you have arrived, you hear the Committee of Style reporting its latest version of the constitution. The committee ends its report with a question "Is there anything that still needs debating?" Geroge Mason, a Virginia delegate, stands to introduce a debate. Mason calls for the creation and inclusion of a Bill of Rights in the new constitution. He urges the necessity for an enumerated bill of rights in the new constitution to protect and officially declare the rights of the people. Mason argues that a Bill of Rights would "give great quiet to the people." And “might be prepared in a few hours.” Mason keeps insisting on the matter of creating a Bill of Rights until he gets the support of a Massachusets delegate. Elbridge Gerry agrees with Mason and follows with the request that a Committee shall be formed to prepare a Bill of Rights. Roger Sherman opposes the proposal of creating a Bill of Rights and argues that, “the State Declarations of Rights are not repealed by this Constitution and, being in force, are sufficient.” The President of the Convention, George Washington, askes the delegates to vote on this matter. [[You vote for creating a Bill of Rights.]] [[You don't see the necessity for a Bill of Rights, and thus vote against it.]]

When arriving to your boarding house you begin to write a letter to your wife back in your plantation and then go to sleep. [[Wake up and go to Independence Hall for next debate..]]

The motion is defeated (10 – 0). Your fellow delegates from New York disagree with you, thus the majority of the vote of your state is against the motion. You are frustrated by the majority vote against the creation of a Bill of Rights and feel powerless to do anything about it. George Mason keeps arguing for the creation of a Bill of Rights, even though the majority of the delegates disagree with him. The House adjourns for the day because of this heated debate. You head to your boarding house thinking about the states in this Convention and whether you will ever produce a Constitution agreed upon by each delegate. You enter your boarding house. [[Fall asleep reading a book |Fall asleep and hope for a better day tomorrow!]]

You vote with your fellow delegates from New York against Gerry's proposal because you feel a Bill of Rights is unnecessary, supporting Sherman's argument since each state has its own Bill of Rights that cannot be repealed by the new Constitution. George Mason keeps arguing for the creation of a Bill of Rights, even though the majority of the delegates disagree with him. The House adjourns for the day because of this heated debate. You decide to walk to your boarding house and end the day. You enter your boarding house. [[Read a book and fall asleep!]]

You wake up. It's September 17, 1787: It's the day you have been waiting for! You and all of the other delegates are meeting today to finally vote on the new Constitution, with the hopes of also signing it. While walking happily to Independence Hall, you see Madison and start talking to him. He expresses his joy to you about finally getting to create a Constitution that will rescue the nation. You enter Independence Hall with James Madison and sit at your seats. George Washington asks you, and the other delegates, to vote on the question of either approving or rejecting the currently amended Constitution. Washington says, "Do you agree with this new Constitution?" And you vote... [[Aye!]] [[No!]]

On the question regarding the new Constitution, as amended, you approved of it, following the footsteps of the majority! Approved (10 – 0) Now is the time you have all been waiting for. You either sign the new Constitution or not. Benjamin Franklin stands up to give a speech before everyone finalizes their decision with a signature on this new document you've all been working on for the last couple of months. "The Constitution may not be perfect, he said, but “I cannot help expressing a wish that every member of the Convention who may still have objections to it . . . to make manifest our unanimity, put his name to this instrument.” Are you going to sign your name on this new Constitution? [[Sign the Constitution!]] [[Abstain from signing the Constitution!]]

On the question regarding the new Constitution, as amended, you voted against it while all of the attending States approved it. It was approved in a (10 – 0) vote! Although the delegates did not agree with you on the matter of disapproving this document, you still have a chance. Now is the time you have all been waiting for, you either sign the new Constitution or not. Benjamin Franklin stands up to give a speech before everyone finalizes their decision with a signature on this new document you've all been working on for the last couple of months. "The Constitution may not be perfect, he said, but “I cannot help expressing a wish that every member of the Convention who may still have objections to it . . . to make manifest our unanimity, put his name to this instrument.” Are you going to sign your name on this new Constitution? [[Sign the Constitution!]] [[Abstain from signing the Constitution!]]

You feel a great deal of joy and relief after signing the Constitution. You have never felt this much joy since you first joined the Convention to address the issues that your state and country faced. While the last members were signing the Constitution, Benjamin Franklin, looked towards the President’s chair, where a painting of a rising sun laid behind it, conversed with Madison, "painters had found it difficult to distinguish in their art, a rising, from a setting sun." You hear Madison say "I have, often and often, in the course of the session, and the vicissitudes of my hopes and fears as to its issue, looked at that behind the President, without being able to tell whether it was rising or setting: but now at length, I have the happiness to know, that it is a rising and not a setting sun." You feel so happy and joyful for contributing to the creation of a Constitution that will improve the state of your state and the state of your nation as a whole. You remember that this isn't over yet and you still have to fight for the Constitution's ratification. [[The End!]]

You side with Randolph, Mason, and Gerry on not signing the new Constitution. You do not agree on this new document because it is full of flaws that can very well cause a civil war in your home state and even the entire country. You feel frustrated and defeated that this flawed new document is being signed by the majority of the delegates, but you remember that this isn't over yet and you can still play a role during the document's ratification. While the last members were signing the Constitution, Benjamin Franklin, looked towards the President’s chair, where a painting of a rising sun laid behind it, conversed with Madison, "painters had found it difficult to distinguish in their art, a rising, from a setting sun." You hear Madison say "I have, often and often, in the course of the session, and the vicissitudes of my hopes and fears as to its issue, looked at that behind the President, without being able to tell whether it was rising or setting: but now at length, I have the happiness to know, that it is a rising and not a setting sun." You feel angry by their conversation and decide to leave immediately. [[The End!]]

Congratulations!!! You made it to the end of the Constitutional Convention of 1787! 39 delegates signed the Constitution. Mason, Gerry, and Randolph refused to sign in protest. Finally, the work of creating the Constitution was done. However the work for ratification still lays ahead. As Benjamin Franklin noted, "the Constitution had its faults, but it is possible that no better document could have been created." With the signing of the Constitution by the Convention's President, George Washington, and the signatures of each of the attending states, the journey began. Hopes were high for the new creation: as Washington said in his own letter to the President of Congress, "we wish that it may promote the lasting welfare of that country so dear to us all, and secure her freedom and happiness." Long Live America! [[Credits]]

The motion is defeated (10 – 0). Your fellow delegates from Virginia disagree with you, thus the majority of the votes from your state is against the motion. You are frustrated by the majority vote against the creation of a Bill of Rights and feel powerless to do anything about it. George Mason keeps arguing for the creation of a Bill of Rights, even though the majority of the delegates disagree with him. The House adjourns for the day because of this heated debate. You head to your boarding house thinking about the states in this Convention and whether you will ever produce a Constitution agreed upon by each delegate. You enter your boarding house. [[Fall asleep reading a book |Fall asleep and hope for a better day tomorrow.]]

You vote with your fellow delegates from Virginia against Gerry's proposal because you feel that a Bill of Rights is unnecessary, supporting Sherman's argument since each state has its own Bill of Rights that cannot be repealed by the new Constitution. George Mason keeps arguing for the creation of a Bill of Rights, even though the majority of the delegates disagree with him. The House adjourns for the day because of this heated debate. You decide to walk to your boarding house and end the day. You enter your boarding house. [[Read a book and fall asleep.]]

Geroge Mason, a Virginia delegate, is calling for the creation and inclusion of a bill of rights in the new constitution. He urges the necessity for an enumerated bill of rights in the new constitution to protect and officially declare the rights of the people. Mason argues that a bill of rights would "give great quiet to the people." And “might be prepared in a few hours.” Elbridge Gerry agrees with Mason and follows with the request that a Committee shall be formed to prepare a Bill of Rights. Roger Sherman opposes the proposal of creating a bill of rights and argues that, “the State Declarations of Rights are not repealed by this Constitution and, being in force, are sufficient." The motion for creating a Bill of Rights is defeated (10-0) [[You hear rumors about the constitutional convention]]

On the question to agree to the new Constitution, as amended, all the states approved (10 – 0) Benjamin Franklin stands up to give a speech before everyone finalizes their decision about this document. "The Constitution may not be perfect, he said, but “I cannot help expressing a wish that every member of the Convention who may still have objections to it . . . to make manifest our unanimity, put his name to this instrument.” [[Delegates signed the new Constitution]]

You missed the opportunity of being a part of the Convention that contributed to the creation of the new Constitution. You could have gained a great deal of fame and even been a part of the future presidential cabinet or even the president, but you decided to give it all up by not agreeing to join the Constitutional Convention of 1787! Don't worry Harry the hard work was done for you... Remember to speak up during Ratification! Good luck! [[Credits]]

The three-fifths rule known now as the Three-Fifths Compromise was passed with a 9-2 vote. In the constitution, the Three-Fifths Compromise is found in Article 1, Section 2. “Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several states . . . according to their respective Number, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free Persons, including those bound for service for a Term of Years [white servants], and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other persons.” What about [[the Bill of Rights]]?

Game Designers, Writers, and Producers Include: Abbas Abdulhasan Giselle Rodriguez Mariah Ramirez Honors History 172; Fall Semester 2018 Sources: “Constitution of the United States-A History.” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, www.archives.gov/founding-docs/more-perfect-union#toc-the-bill-of-rights. “Constitutional Convention and Ratification, 1787–1789.” U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of State, history.state.gov/milestones/1784-1800/convention-and-ratification. CORBETT, SCOTT, et al. U.S. Hist-Ory. Openstax, 2014, https://openstax.org/details/books/us-history. Accessed December 2018. “Day-by-Day Summary of the Convention.” Teaching American History, teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/summary/. “Individual Biographies of the Delegates to the Constitutional Convention.” Teaching American History, teachingamericanhistory.org/convention/delegates/. “Meet the Framers of the Constitution.” National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, www.archives.gov/founding-docs/founding-fathers. Mount, Steve. “Constitutional Topic: The Federalists and Anti-Federalists - The U.S. Constitution Online.” Other Historical American Documents - The U.S. Constitution Online - USConstitution.net, 12 Mar. 2012, https://www.usconstitution.net/consttop_ccon.html Noe, Kathryn. “The Constitutional Convention.” Ben Guide, bensguide.gpo.gov/m-constitutional-convention. Smith, George H. “Slavery in the Constitutional Convention.” Libertarianism.org, 22 Sept. 2017, www.libertarianism.org/columns/slavery-constitutional-convention. “THE FOUNDING FATHERS.” Delegates to the Constitutional Convention, law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/marryff.html.

39 delegates signed the Constitution. Mason, Gerry, and Randolph refused to sign in protest. Finally, the work of creating the Constitution was done. The work for ratification still lays ahead. As Benjamin Franklin noted, "the Constitution had its faults, but it is possible that no better document could have been created." With the signing of the Constitution by the Convention's President, George Washington, and the signatures of each of the attending states, the journey began. Hopes were high for the new creation: as Washington said in his own letter to the President of Congress, "we wish that it may promote the lasting welfare of that country so dear to us all, and secure her freedom and happiness." [[The End]]