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Franklin’s Role in the Convention

Franklin's Persuasive Speech

Franklin, hampered by health issues, had James Wilson read his speech at the Constitutional Convention. He admitted not fully approving the Constitution but emphasized the importance of changing views with new information. Franklin highlighted humanity's inherent flaws and urged delegates to doubt their judgments for broader agreement.

His speech blended simplicity and metaphor, likening the Constitution to an imperfect table needing trimming. He appealed to national duty and pushed for unanimity in signing, knowing it would impact the new government's perceived strength.

Franklin's approach combined humility, wit, and understanding of human nature. He advocated for reason and unity, effectively nudging most delegates to sign the document despite its imperfections.

James Wilson reading Franklin's speech at the Constitutional Convention, elderly Franklin seated nearby

Franklin's Diplomatic Skills

Franklin's diplomatic prowess shone during the Constitutional Convention. His decades of public service and grasp of human nature made him an ideal mediator for the fractured colonies.

He excelled at rephrasing problems clearly, as seen in his "broad table" analogy during the state representation debate. This approach encouraged delegates to compromise for a functional union.

Franklin played a key role in the "Great Compromise," articulating the need for both proportional and equal representation. This led to the bicameral legislature structure.

  • Used humor to diffuse tension
  • Pushed for Gouverneur Morris's signing form
  • Requested John Dickinson to sign on his behalf

Franklin's pragmatism and foresight recognized that stubbornness leads to stalemate, while mutual respect opens doors to agreement. His diplomatic skills were crucial in shaping both the Constitution and the precedent for future American statesmanship.

Benjamin Franklin using diplomacy to mediate between delegates at the Constitutional Convention

Franklin's Contributions to the Constitution's Content

Franklin proposed several ideas that influenced the Constitution's development. He initially advocated for a single-chambered legislature and a multi-person executive council, aiming to prevent power concentration. While these ideas weren't adopted, they sparked important debates.

His suggestion that public officers serve without pay aimed to reduce corruption in governance. Though not implemented, it added depth to discussions on public service ethics.

Franklin's most significant contribution was the "Great Compromise" on state representation. He proposed a bicameral legislature with:

  • House of Representatives based on population
  • Senate providing equal representation

This compromise became the foundation of the U.S. legislative structure1.

He also pushed for a "perfectible" Constitution, emphasizing the need for a workable framework that could be improved over time. This pragmatic view paved the way for future amendments, including the Bill of Rights.

Franklin advocated for direct taxation by the national government, arguing it would provide more stable revenue than state requisitions. While not fully endorsed initially, this idea influenced later federal financial policies2.

His focus on a strong national government over a loose confederation helped ensure the Constitution didn't repeat the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Though not all of Franklin's ideas were adopted, they were crucial in provoking thought and sparking dialogue. His contributions shaped the Constitution into a flexible framework adaptable to the republic's needs.

Illustration of Franklin's Great Compromise, showing bicameral legislature structure

Franklin's Influence on the Signing Process

Franklin shaped the Constitution's signing procedure, understanding that the document's credibility depended on apparent unanimity. As debates ended, he advocated for a signing form by Gouverneur Morris to persuade reluctant delegates.

"We may not adore this document, but let's agree it's the best compromise we could achieve."

Franklin saw this as necessary to secure signatories, focusing his argument on presenting a united front. George Washington backed a motion to increase the House of Representatives' size, aiming to win over undecided delegates.

Some proved harder to convince:

  • Edmund Randolph
  • George Mason
  • Elbridge Gerry

These three refused to sign despite Franklin's personal appeals. The signing form implied delegates were affirming their participation and general consensus, rather than outright personal approval. This was Franklin's final move in American politics, guiding hesitant hands to the signing quill.

Franklin used Washington's chair with a half-sun motif as a metaphor for the nation's birth. While not swaying every dissenting vote, Franklin's approach brought much of the Convention together. His orchestration of the signing process ensured the Constitution emerged as a rallying point for the new republic.

Benjamin Franklin persuading delegates to sign the Constitution, Washington's chair with half-sun motif visible

Franklin's Legacy and Final Public Service

Franklin's presence at the Constitutional Convention was crucial yet understated. He advocated for compromise, used humor to ease tension, and maneuvered for broader consensus. His actions transformed the Convention from potentially discordant to relatively harmonious.

His funeral in 1790 drew 20,000 mourners in Philadelphia1. Despite some political detractors, Franklin's posthumous influence remained strong. His final public service at the Convention epitomized his lifelong dedication to public welfare, applying his diplomatic skills and wisdom to this closing act.

Franklin's contemporaries recognized his importance, even when they disagreed politically. Future generations would view him as a multifaceted contributor:

  • Scientist
  • Printer
  • Writer
  • Statesman capable of reconciling conflicting ambitions

His work at the Convention wasn't just duty, but legacy-building for a country he helped shape. Franklin's contributions proved indispensable in forging a document that would endure, embodying both a specific historical moment and timeless principles.

Franklin's spirit continues to influence American governance. He didn't just help write the Constitution; he helped write the story of America itselfโ€”a tale still grappling with the balances of power and freedom he envisioned over two centuries ago.

Franklin's funeral procession in Philadelphia, large crowd mourning

Franklin's legacy is etched into American governance. His contributions to the Constitutional Convention were pivotal, ensuring the Constitution was a living framework adaptable to the needs of a growing nation. His wisdom, pragmatism, and dedication to unity remain a guiding light for those who value free speech and originalism.