How the Great Compromise Resolved the Disagreement between New Jersey Plan and Virginia Plan

How did the Great Compromise settle the disagreement between those who supported the New Jersey Plan and Virginia Plan?

The Great Compromise settled the disagreement between supporters of the New Jersey Plan and the Virginia Plan by creating a bicameral legislature, comprised of two houses - the Senate and the House of Representatives. This compromise was crucial in establishing a system of proportional representation in the House of Representatives based on population size, and equal representation in the Senate with each state having two senators.

Explanation:

The Virginia Plan: This plan, proposed by larger states, advocated for representation in the national legislature based on population size. Under the Virginia Plan, states with larger populations would have more representatives in the legislature, giving them more influence over decision-making.

The New Jersey Plan: On the other hand, the New Jersey Plan, put forward by smaller states, called for equal representation for each state in the national legislature. This meant that every state, regardless of its population size, would have an equal say in the legislative process.

The Great Compromise: In order to bridge the gap between these two conflicting plans, the Great Compromise proposed a solution that incorporated elements from both the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan. The compromise established a system where the House of Representatives would be based on proportional representation, giving larger states more seats based on their population. Meanwhile, the Senate would have equal representation, with each state having an equal number of senators.

This compromise was crucial in ensuring that both large and small states had a voice in the legislative process. By combining the principles of proportional representation and equal representation, the Great Compromise laid the foundation for the structure of the United States Congress that we see today. It showcased the spirit of compromise and cooperation among the delegates, ultimately resulting in the adoption of the United States Constitution.

In conclusion, the Great Compromise played a pivotal role in settling the disagreement between supporters of the New Jersey Plan and the Virginia Plan by creating a balanced system of representation in the national legislature. This compromise ensured that the interests of both large and small states were taken into consideration, leading to the successful establishment of the United States Congress as we know it today.