Why did james madison and alexander hamilton want to draft an entirely new document rather than just amending the article of confederation?

When several delegates of the United States met in the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, in 1787, their main purpose was to revise the system of government under the Articles of Confederation and create new laws that provided an adequate framework of government. However, many delegates, including James Madison and Alexander Hamilton, soon found out that amending the Constitution would not be enough to fix the inefficiencies of the Articles of Confederation, and the drafting of an entirely new constitution would be necessary.

The main reasons why Hamilton and Madison wanted to create a new Constitution were to establish a new structure of government based on the principle of Separation of Powers and the system of Checks and Balances, and to grant specific power to the government that allowed it to lead the nation properly such as the power to levy taxes and regulate commerce.

James Madison and Alexander Hamilton wanted to draft an entirely new document rather than just amending the Articles of Confederation because the Articles had a weak central government that was ineffective.

Further Explanation:

The Articles of Confederation was America's first constitution after becoming independent from Great Britain. This constitution was originally made with the central government having very little power. One of the biggest reasons behind this was the treatment of American colonists by King George III and the British parliament. The colonists felt that they were mistreated by a tyrannical central government.

Despite the delegates best intentions, the weak federal government set up within the Articles of Confederation failed. Due to the federal governments inability to collect taxes, put down rebellions, etc., many federalists (like Hamilton and Madison) wanted a completely new constitution. These individuals would help inspire the Federalist papers and the creation of a new US Constitution with a stronger federal government.

Learn More:

Explanation of Federalists and Anti Federalists-

Key Details:

Topics: American History, Constitutional Convention

Grade Level: 7-12

Keyword: James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Articles of Confederation, Federalists, US Constitution