TED-Ed: Why wasn't the Bill of Rights originally in the US Constitution? - James Coll

The video explores the US Constitution's origins, highlighting the absence of the Bill of Rights in the original text. It discusses the challenges faced by the early US government under the Articles of Confederation, leading to the Constitutional Convention. The debate between Federalists and Anti-Federalists is examined, focusing on concerns about centralized power and individual liberties. The ratification process is detailed, culminating in the addition of the Bill of Rights, which remains fundamental to American freedoms.

What was a significant challenge faced by the national government under the Articles of Confederation?

• It could not enforce laws or raise funds effectively.

• It had too much power over the states.

• It was able to suppress rebellions easily.

• It had a strong central leadership.

Which group of essays supported the new Constitution and who were its authors?

• The Liberty Papers by John Adams and Samuel Adams

• The Anti-Federalist Papers by Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry

• The Federalist Papers by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay

• The Constitution Papers by George Washington and Benjamin Franklin

What was a primary concern of the Anti-Federalists regarding the new Constitution?

• It provided too many rights to individuals.

• It lacked protections for individual liberties.

• It was too short and lacked detail.

• It was too similar to the British monarchy.

Why did James Madison initially oppose adding a Bill of Rights to the Constitution?

• He believed it was unnecessary as rights were already protected.

• He feared it would lead to more rebellions.

• He thought it would make the Constitution too long.

• He wanted to maintain absolute power in the central government.

When were the first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, ratified?

• December 15th, 1791

• September 17th, 1787

• July 4th, 1776

• March 4th, 1789