All Legislative Powers Herein Granted – The Legislative Process 1789-1860

In the early republic, Congress was a colorful, exciting, unpredictable, and contentious branch of the United States government. The members constantly quarreled but often deliberated and compromised through persuasive oratory and rational conversation. Congress was divided by party and sectionalism, but was guided through these difficulties by legislative statesmen. The Congress continued to function as the undisputed law making body of the people of the United  States. Even during some of its most tumultuous years, from 1789 until the outbreak of the Civil War in 1860, the Congress effectively governed the nation.

• Students will evaluate the role of Congress and what powers it was intended to have.
• Students will analyze the fears the Framers had concerning legislative tyranny.
• Students will be able to understand the changes in Congress from the framing of the Constitution to the Civil War.

Student Handouts

• Handout A: Background Essay – All Legislative Powers Herein Granted – The Legislative Process 1789-1860
• Handout B: America’s Great Debates
• Handout C: Position Assignment Cards
• Handout D: Elections!

Teacher Resources

• All Legislative Powers Herein Granted— The Legislative Process 1789-1860 Answer Key