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The Great Compromise: A Landmark Agreement in U.S. History
Definition & meaning
The Great Compromise was an agreement reached during the United States Constitutional Convention in 1787. It established a bicameral legislature, which means that Congress would have two separate chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives would be based on the population of each state, allowing for representation that reflects the number of people living in that state. In contrast, the Senate would have two senators from each state, ensuring equal representation regardless of population. This compromise was crucial in shaping the legislative framework of the United States Constitution.
Table of content
Legal use & context
The Great Compromise is significant in constitutional law and political science, as it directly influences how legislative power is distributed among the states. It is often referenced in discussions about federalism, representation, and the balance of power within the U.S. government. Understanding this compromise is essential for anyone studying constitutional law or engaging in political processes, as it lays the groundwork for how laws are made and how representatives are elected.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
One example of the Great Compromise in action is the way congressional seats are allocated after each census. States with larger populations gain more representatives in the House, while all states maintain equal representation in the Senate.
(Hypothetical example) If a state with a growing population, such as Texas, gains additional representatives in the House, it reflects the principle established by the Great Compromise, ensuring that legislative power aligns with population changes.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Difference
Virginia Plan
A proposal for a bicameral legislature with representation based on population.
Focused solely on population-based representation, unlike the Great Compromise which balanced population and equal state representation.
New Jersey Plan
A proposal for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state.
Advocated for equal representation only, contrasting with the Great Compromise's dual approach.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are interested in understanding how the Great Compromise affects current legislative processes, consider researching congressional representation and the impact of population changes on legislative power. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates related to legislative processes or civic engagement. If you have specific legal questions, consulting a legal professional may be beneficial.
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