Chapters 9-12 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 9: Debate on Veto of State Laws (June 8th)

The delegates debate whether the Congress has the ability to control state laws that violate national laws. Many support this to avoid conflict and dissension. If the national government is not supreme, it cannot be effective. Others fear this makes the national government too powerful and will lead to the eradication of the states.

Chapter 10: The New Jersey Plan (June 15th)

Most of the Virginia Plan is accepted but many oppose increasing the national government's power to such a strong degree. The delegates from small states are particularly concerned. William Paterson of New Jersey offers a "purely federal" plan that it more like the Articles—it is a "league of states." On the New Jersey plan, Congress can raise revenue through duties, and there will be a Supreme Court...