In 1786 Annapolis, Maryland, a meeting was held to discuss some problems with the Articles of Confederation.

The convention began its work in May 1787 and finished September of the same year. More than 70 men had been chosen as delegates by the various states but only 55 attended in Philadelphia.

Dirt had been spread on the cobblestone outside the hall so that the noise from passing carriages could not disturb the meeting. George Washington was selected president of the convention.

The first major difficulty that the convention faced was power between small and large states. The Virginia Plan, made by James Madison, proposed two houses of Congress based on population.

On the other hand the New Jersey Plan, wanted one house of Congress. This plan was represented by William Patterson.

After arguing a compromise was made, The Great Compromise so, the new government would have two houses of Congress. In the House of Representatives, each state would be represented according to population, satisfying the large states . In Senate, each state would be represented equally, satisfying the small states.