3.9 Ratification of the US Constitution
Using the excerpts above, answer (a), (b), and (c).
Source 1
“My principal objections to the plan [the United States Constitution] are, that there is no adequate provision for a representation of the people; that they have no security for the right of election; that some of the powers of the legislature are ambiguous, and others indefinite and dangerous; that the executive is blended with, and will have undue influence over, the legislature; that the judicial department will be oppressive;...and that the system is without the security of individual rights.”
Elbridge Gerry, letter to the Massachusetts legislature, October 18, 1787
Source 2
“In framing a government to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: You must first enable the government to control the governed: and in the next place oblige it to control itself by so contriving the interior structure of the government as that its parts may be the means of keeping each other in their proper place.”
James Madison, Federalist No. 51, February 8, 1788
Question 1
Briefly explain Gerry’s stance and understanding of the U.S. Constitution.
Question 2
Briefly explain Madison’s stance and understanding of the U.S. Constitution.
Question 3
Briefly explain how ONE specific event, development, or circumstance that is not explicitly mentioned in the excerpts that could be used to support EITHER Gerry’s or Madison’s interpretation.
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