Motives of the Framers

1
Motives of the Framers

• Chapter 2, Theme D

2
Economic Interests

• Modest role
• Varied widely
• Beard Framers expected to benefit economically
• No clear division along class lines support this
  claim
• Recent research shows st. econ. gain outweighed
  personal gain (EX. Slaves)

3
Economic Interests

• These interests played into the ratifying
  conventions
• Who supported the Constitution?
• Merchants, urban, western landowners, held govt
  IOUs, abolitionists
• Who opposed the Constitution?
• Farmers, debtors, slave owners

4
Equality

• Slaves not mentionedsee your notes on
  compromises. Why?
• How are women protected by the Constitution?
• Is our Government too weak to protect equality
  due to special interests?
• Does a strong government create inequality or
  prevent it?

5
Modern Reforms

• Reduce separation of powers?
• Eliminate gridlock
• Limit interference with government agencies
• Make president stronger more accountable with
  powers over the Congress. (See p. 42 for list)

6
Modern Reforms

• Government does too much
• Personal wants outweigh common good
• How to limit government?
• Limit taxes collected
• Require a balanced budget
• President should regain rescission authority
• Limit the power of courts