Chapters 17-20 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 17: Majority Rule the Basic Republican Principle (July 5th, 13th, and 14th)

A grand committee is created to seek a compromise between the large states and small states. They propose that representation by person be the rule in the lower house and that all budget bills start there. In the Senate, there is representation by State. This is "the Great Compromise." Madison thinks the convention is sacrificing justice for the small states. Majority rule alone can legitimize government. Mr. Wilson echoes these ideas.

Chapter 18: Election and Term of Office of the National Executive (July 17th and 19th)

The convention now decides how the executive is to be composed, elected and empowered. However, there is a question about whether the executive should be selected by Congress. The result is largely inconclusive. Some argue, like Gouverneur Morris, that the executive should...