1783–1791
1783–1791: Constitution and Bill of Rights
After independence, the new nation struggled under the weak Articles of Confederation. The Constitutional Convention of 1787 produced a stronger federal framework. Ratification debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists shaped the Constitution and led to the Bill of Rights in 1791.
Why This Era Matters
The Constitution created the governmental structure that has governed the United States for 250 years. The Bill of Rights — including freedom of speech, press, and religion — remains the bedrock of American civil liberties. The founding debates about federal power and individual rights continue to shape American politics today.
Key Themes
- Constitutional government
- Federalism
- Individual rights
- Civil liberties
- Free speech
Key People
- James Madison
- Alexander Hamilton
- George Washington
- John Jay
Key Documents
- 📜Articles of Confederation
- 📜Constitution (1787)
- 📜Federalist Papers
- 📜Bill of Rights (1791)
Key Places
- 📍Philadelphia
- 📍Independence Hall
Major Events in This Era
U.S. Constitution Signed
Delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the United States Constitution, creating the framework for the federal government that has governed the nation for over 235 years.
Bill of Rights Ratified
The first ten amendments to the Constitution — the Bill of Rights — were ratified, guaranteeing fundamental individual freedoms including speech, religion, press, assembly, and due process.