Chapters 25-28 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 25: Citizenship for Immigrants (August 9th)

A motion is put forward which requires 14 years of residence before citizenship is granted. This is opposed to the current 4 year qualification. Many in favor of the restriction are worried that the national interest may be subverted by foreigners and that a long residence is necessary to "Americanize" them. Mr. Franklin is worried that other delegates are exaggerating the threat of European immigration.

Chapter 26: Executive Veto Power (August 15th)

The delegates debate the executive veto power. Gouverneur Morris suggests that the Executive have an absolute veto. Mr. Sherman thinks it should be limited; Congress should have some override option.

Chapter 27: Slavery and the Constitutions (August 21st and 22nd)

The Convention now fights over the slave trade. The draft prevents a prohibition or tax on the slave trade, but there are those who reject...