Annapolis Convention

The Annapolis Convention, formally known as the Meeting of Commissioners to Remedy Defects of the Federal Government, was a national political convention held from September 11 to 14, 1786, at Mann's Tavern in Annapolis, Maryland. It was an important precursor to the Constitutional Convention of 1787.

Background

The Annapolis Convention was called in response to the growing dissatisfaction with the Articles of Confederation, the first governing document of the United States. The Articles were widely seen as weak and ineffective, leading several states to seek a convention to discuss improvements. Initially proposed by Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, the idea was to address issues related to trade and commerce; however, the scope of the convention eventually encompassed broader governmental reforms.

Delegates

Only twelve delegates from five states (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Virginia) attended the convention, a number insufficient to make any major legislative proposals at the national level. Notable delegates included Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, who would later play pivotal roles in drafting the United States Constitution.

Proceedings

Due to the limited attendance and the absence of delegates from the majority of states, the convention did not proceed with its initial agenda of discussing amendments to the Articles of Confederation. Instead, the delegates focused on planning a subsequent convention with wider representation from all the states.

Outcome

The primary outcome of the Annapolis Convention was its final report, drafted by Alexander Hamilton. The report emphasized the need for a stronger federal government and recommended that a new convention be held in Philadelphia the following year. This recommendation led directly to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where the current Constitution of the United States was drafted.

Legacy

The Annapolis Convention is considered a significant event in American history as it represented a stepping stone towards the federal consolidation of the United States. It highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and set the stage for the creation of a new and more effective governing document.

See also

• History of the United States
• Founding Fathers of the United States