2.3 The Development of the Constitution
The Question of Representation: Small States vs. Large States
Slavery and Freedom
Another fundamental division separated the states. Following the Revolution, some of the northern
states had either abolished slavery or instituted plans by which slaves would gradually be emancipated.
Pennsylvania, for example, had passed the Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery in 1780. All people
born in the state to enslaved mothers after the law’s passage would become indentured servants to be
set free at age twenty-eight. In 1783, Massachusetts had freed all enslaved people within the state.
Many Americans believed slavery was opposed to the ideals stated in the Declaration of Independence.
Others felt it was inconsistent with the teachings of Christianity. Some feared for the safety of the
country’s white population if the number of slaves and white Americans’ reliance on them increased.
Although some southerners shared similar sentiments, none of the southern states had abolished
slavery and none wanted the Constitution to interfere with the institution. In addition to supporting the
agriculture of the South, slaves could be taxed as property and counted as population for purposes of a
state’s representation in the government.
Federal Supremacy vs. State Sovereignty
Perhaps the greatest division among the states split those who favored a strong national government
and those who favored limiting its powers and allowing states to govern themselves in most matters.
Supporters of a strong central government argued that it was necessary for the survival and efficient
functioning of the new nation. Furthermore, other countries would be reluctant to loan money to the
United States if the federal government lacked the ability to impose taxes in order to repay its debts.