May 25 in American History

May 25, 1787 — the Constitutional Convention begins

Delegates gathered in Philadelphia, ostensibly to fix the failing Articles of Confederation — and instead spent a sweltering summer, behind closed doors, writing an entirely new Constitution. Washington presided; Madison took the notes. Out of fierce compromise came the framework that has governed the country ever since.

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Common Questions

What happened on May 25 in American history?

In 1787: the Constitutional Convention begins. Delegates gathered in Philadelphia, ostensibly to fix the failing Articles of Confederation — and instead spent a sweltering summer, behind closed doors, writing an entirely new Constitution.

Why is May 25 significant?

Delegates gathered in Philadelphia, ostensibly to fix the failing Articles of Confederation — and instead spent a sweltering summer, behind closed doors, writing an entirely new Constitution. Washington presided; Madison took the notes. Out of fierce compromise came the framework that has governed the country ever since.

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