Library of Congress
Loc: The New Nation, 1783 1815
The links in the New Nation, which is provided for by the Library of Congress, will lead you to sets of selected primary sources on a variety of topics,such as the Constitution, governmental policy on Native Americans, and problems and...
The History Cat
The History Cat: The Constitutional Convention: Creating the Constitution
Explains why the Articles of Confederation were not strong enough to hold the country together. One result was a farmers' rebellion in Massachusetts led by Daniel Shays, which was precipitated by a debt crisis that caused many farmers to...
The Dirksen Congressional Center
Congress for Kids: Signing the Constitution
This site has a brief summary that describes the delegates to the Constitutional Convention. This group is sometimes called the "Founding Fathers."
Library of Congress
Loc: Ferrand's Records: Records of the Federal Convention
A large collection of chronological links to the text of the official records of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787.
Other
The Architect of the Capitol: Roger Sherman
This resource from the Architect of the Capitol is a government site that focuses on art and architecture in the U.S. Capitol. Features a picture of a marble statue of Sherman.
The Dirksen Congressional Center
Congress for Kids: The Articles of Confederation
At this site read a short synopsis of the Articles of Confederation, and then complete a short quiz by clicking on the "show what you know" link at the bottom.
Success Link
Success Link: 1787 [Archived Version]
By using the novel, Shh! We're Writing the Constitution by Jean Fritz, and 1787 by Joan Anderson, students learn the lively discussion among the delegates to the Constitutional Convention concerning the ratification of the document they...
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Us History: 1754 1800: The Constitutional Convention
Shortly after the end of the Revolutionary War, American leaders realized that the nation needed a new, stronger Constitution. But what would the new system of government look like?
Digital Public Library of America
Dpla: Creating the Us Constitution
The sources in this primary set document the creation of the US Constitution. Includes teaching guide.
Other
Potus: James Madison
Comprehensive facts about James Madison and his presidency. Includes biography, election results, cabinet members, odd facts, and notable events.
University of Groningen
American History: Biographies: James Mc Clurg 1746 1823
This site provides a biography of James McClurg (1746-1823), a noted scientist and doctor in the early days of the United States. He was also a politician. McClurg was part of the Virginia delegation of the Constitutional Convention.
Library of Congress
Loc: Biographical Directory of the u.s. Congress: Oliver Ellsworth
A brief biography of Oliver Ellsworth, the delegate from Connecticut to the Constitutional Convention. He also served as a senator and as a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
University of Groningen
American History: Biographies: William Paterson
This resource features a detailed biography on the politician from New Jersey who advocated for states' rights.
Digital History
Digital History: Was the Constitutional Convention Legal?
A look at the convening of a Constitutional Convention to address the problems inherent in the Articles of Confederation. Read a quote from George Washington, who addressed the legality of such a convention.
Digital History
Digital History: Philadelphia in 1787
A quick snapshot of what the city of Philadelphia was like in terms of population, wealth, and appearance at the beginning of the Constitutional Convention held there in 1787.
University of Chicago
The Founders' Constitution: Statement by Hugh Williamson
A short statement by Williamson given during a debate in Congress (1792) on Article 1, Section 9, Clause 4 of the Constitution.
Wikimedia
Wikipedia: Alexander Martin
An entry on the life of Alexander Martin, who served briefly in the Continental Army. He was later tried for cowardice, was acquitted but resigned shortly afterward. This did not hurt his political career, however. He was a delegate to...
History Teacher
Historyteacher.net: The u.s. Constitution: Quiz (2)
10-question multiple choice quiz is immediately scored and covers events pertaining to the U.S. Constittution.
History Teacher
Historyteacher.net: The u.s. Constitution: Quiz (3)
10-question multiple choice quiz is immediately scored and covers events pertaining to the U.S. Constitution.
Other
Colonial Hall: Rufus King 1755 1827
A biography of this delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1788 from Massachusetts. He later served as the American ambassador to England.
Other
Edmund Randolph's Views on Separation of Church & State
A short article that discusses Randolph's beliefs regarding religion and the role of the state.
Other
Commonwealth of Massachusetts: Caleb Strong (1745 1819)
A short biography of Caleb Strong, a delegate from Massachusetts to the Constitutional Convention, focusing on his role as Governor of Massachusetts in the early 19th century.
Independence Hall Association
U.s. History: George Washington
A brief overview of George Washington and his importance to the success of the new nation, the United States.
Independence Hall Association
U.s. History: Edmund Randolph
Ushistory.org provides this biography of Edmund Randolph includes highlights of his political career and his role during the Constitutional Convention. Randolph went on to serve as Secretary of State.