10 Facts About Framers

Framers's plan called for a bicameral legislature made up of a House of Delegates and a Senate.

Framers argued that there should be a single, unitary executive.

Framers spoke 56 times calling for a chief executive who would be energetic, independent, and accountable.

Framers believed that the moderate level of class conflict in American society produced a level of sociability and inter-class friendships that could make the presidency the symbolic leader of the entire American people.

Framers saw popular sovereignty as the cement that held America together linking the interests of the people and of the presidential administration.

Framers agreed with Madison that the Senate should be composed of the wisest and most virtuous citizens, but he saw its role as defending the rights and interests of the states.

Framers said as the States would remain possessed of certain individual rights, each State ought to be able to protect itself: otherwise a few large States will rule the rest.

Framers considered the Articles of Confederation to be a mere treaty among the states, but a true constitution could only be adopted by the people themselves.

Framers wanted to guarantee the right to a jury trial in civil matters, and Mason saw in this a larger opportunity.

Almost all of the 55 Framers had taken part in the Revolution, with at least 29 having served in the Continental forces, most in positions of command.