Federal versus National. The Two Supremes. The City of Philadelphia. Summary and Analysis

Bowen explains the procedure of going into a Committee of the Whole. This practice, which is often used by the British House of Commons, allows an assembly to discuss and vote on issues without taking formal action.

On May 30, Randolph presents an amended version of the first three Virginia Resolves. He proposes a three-part "national government, consisting of a supreme legislative, executive and judicial." (p.41) It is a drastic proposal, and provokes extensive discussion. Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts suggests instead a federal government of three parts. The difference between the two will take up much of the discussion for the next several days. The present form of government is based on the idea that the states are a federation of independent entities, and...