FEAR of large states n Smaller states fear

FEAR – of large states n Smaller states fear loss of identity n Being overpowered by large states n GREAT COMPROMISE n n Bicameral legislature Senate 2 votes/state

FEAR – of the people n Men of property lacked confidence in the masses ability to govern n Only House of Representatives was to be popularly elected

FEAR – of weak central government n Men of property concerned about n n n (Shay’s) Rebellion Trade barriers Lack of uniform currency n Essential powers of national government were ENUMERATED and ELASTIC CLAUSE was added

FEAR – of written constitution n Experiences with British who have no written constitution caused concern n Constitution was written

FEAR – of other states n Americans feared border and trade disputes and invasions n National government was empowered to resolve difference between states and regulate interstate commerce

FEAR – of foreign powers n All states were incapable of n n n defending themselves Enforcing treaties Gaining foreign respect n National government given monopoly over the military powers of gov’t

FEAR – of strong executive n Experience with George III n System of CHECKS AND BALANCES would check power of executive

FEAR – of losing individual rights n No written guarantee of individual rights provoked fears n BILL OF RIGHTS was added at insistence of Anti-Federalists.