Understanding the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan

What is the Virginia Plan?

The Virginia Plan was a proposal put forth by the Virginia delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It called for the establishment of a federal government with three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial. The plan also proposed a bicameral legislature with representation based on population, favoring larger states.

Why did William Paterson of New Jersey oppose the Virginia Plan?

William Paterson of New Jersey argued against the Virginia Plan because he believed it was biased towards larger states, leaving smaller states at a disadvantage in the legislative branch. He felt that under this plan, smaller states would lack proper representation and a voice in decision-making.

Explanation

During the Constitutional Convention of 1787, the Virginia Plan created by James Madison favored larger states by proposing a bicameral legislature with representation based on population. This arrangement would give more power to states with larger populations, potentially marginalizing smaller states like New Jersey. In response, William Paterson proposed an alternative plan known as the New Jersey Plan. The New Jersey Plan sought to establish a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state, ensuring that smaller states had a fair say in the federal government.