Episode 7: The Lay of the Land at the Constitutional Convention

In this episode of the American Founding, Dr. Cost gives an overview of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, starting with a look at the Virginia Plan. Drafted mainly by James Madison, this plan envisioned a bold national government — but would the other delegates agree? Dr. Cost goes on to discuss some of the big personalities at the Convention, including James Wilson, Gouverneur Morris, and Alexander Hamilton. He then looks at the major factions that would have to somehow agree on a new system of government.