Slavery in the Constitutional Convention

Essay 1, Question 2

Slavery In The Constitutional Convention

In the spring of 1787, fifty-five men representing twelve states traveled to Philadelphia to participate in drafting a new constitution. During the final days of the convention, in the month of August, the issue of slavery came up.

Slavery was a major cause of sectional crisis in nineteenth century America. Northern representatives detested the slave trade and wanted it to end immediately, while Southerners avoided using the word “slavery” and argued for it. When Northern delegates pushed too hard for reform, Southern delegates, especially those in South Carolina, threatened to leave the convention. This would destroy any hope of establishing a strong central government.

The institution of slavery had created a line of discrimination. If delegates from the Northern states refused to compromise, Southerners would not support the new government. Northern representatives wanted to make smuggling slaves