The Great Compromise Definition
At the Constitutional Convention in 1787, delegates from the various states gathered to create a new system of government for the United States of America. One of the major issues they faced was how to represent the states in the new Congress. This dilemma led to what is known as the Great Compromise.
What is the Great Compromise?
The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was a solution to the debate over representation in Congress. It proposed a bicameral legislature with different methods of representation in each house.
Key Points of the Great Compromise
- Created a Senate with equal representation for all states
- Established a House of Representatives based on population
- Ensured that both large and small states had a voice in Congress
Example of the Great Compromise in Action
For example, in the Senate, each state regardless of its size has two senators. This ensures that smaller states like Delaware have the same representation as larger states like California. On the other hand, in the House of Representatives, each state is allocated a number of representatives based on its population. This ensures that states with larger populations, like Texas, have more representatives than smaller states.
Case Study: Relevance of the Great Compromise Today
Even today, the Great Compromise remains a vital part of the American political system. It has helped to balance the interests of large and small states and ensure that all states have a say in how the country is governed. Without this compromise, it would have been challenging to create a system that could represent the diverse interests of the states.
Statistics on the Great Compromise
According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 75% of Americans believe that the Great Compromise is still relevant today. This demonstrates the enduring impact of this historic agreement on the American political system.
