Historical Context of the U.S. Constitution

Historical Context of the U.S. Constitution

In 1783 American colonists, defying incredible odds, had just beaten the United Kingdom, western
hemisphere’s preeminent power. Now, these thirteen colonies, saddled with a new governmental charter,
the onerous Articles of Confederation, sought to chart their own, independent path. Yet, by 1787
disgruntled colonists sent delegates to Philadelphia in order to revise the dysfunctional Articles of
Confederation. In a surprising move, many delegates sought to scrap the current Constitution and craft
a new government.

These delegates, steeped in the philosophies of the European Enlightenment, memories of a war of
independence against Imperial Great Britain, cognizant of the current failures of the current
constitution (Articles of Confederation) , and alarmed by the civil discontent post-independence,
arrived in Philadelphia seeking change. In a radical departure most delegates decided not to amend the
current constitution – but instead – craft a new Constitution.

As a result – the United States Constitution reflects political, social, and economic factors
particular to the late Eighteenth century America.

Directions: Please research two historical and/or philosophical influences upon the U.S. Constitution.
Explain, in specific detail, how these external factors influenced a particular clause, section, or
article within the U.S. Constitution.