Short Answer
The Electoral College is a system for electing the U.S. president, balancing representation between populous and less populous states. The Great Compromise established a bicameral legislature, while the Three-Fifths Compromise determined how enslaved individuals would be counted for representation. The Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution, protects individual liberties and limits governmental power.
Step 1: Understand the Electoral College
The Electoral College serves as a method for choosing the president of the United States. This system was created as a compromise to address the debate between electing the president by a Congressional vote versus a popular vote by citizens. It ensures that both populous and less populous states have a voice in presidential elections, balancing representation.
Step 2: Learn About the Great Compromise
The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was pivotal in shaping the legislative structure of Congress. It established a bicameral legislature, which consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House uses proportional representation based on state populations, while the Senate provides equal representation, granting every state two senators.
Step 3: Recognize the Three-Fifths Compromise and Bill of Rights
The Three-Fifths Compromise addressed how enslaved individuals would be counted when determining state populations for taxation and representation. It stipulated that three out of every five enslaved persons would be counted. Additionally, the Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, which protect individual liberties and limit governmental power, ensuring essential rights are maintained.