Question

which of the following statements supports the argument that the constitutional convention was a \conservative coup détat?\

a.) the constitutional convention was a necessary attempt to defend the american revolution against failure.

b.) the constitutional convention bypassed the procedures outlined in the articles of confederation for amending the government.

c.) delegates did their utmost to preserve american independence and the ideals of republicanism.

d.) the creation of executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government was sufficient to protect the interests of all americans.

Explanation:

Define "conservative coup d'état"

A "coup d'état" refers to an illegal or extra-constitutional seizure of power that bypasses established legal procedures. In the context of early American history, historians who argue that the Constitutional Convention was a "conservative coup d'état" point out that the delegates exceeded their original mandate (which was merely to revise the Articles of Confederation) and instead created an entirely new, more centralized system of government, bypassing the strict amendment rules of the Articles.

Analyze the given options

• Option a: This statement presents a sympathetic, defensive view of the Convention, framing it as a necessary rescue mission rather than an illegal or unauthorized seizure of power.
• Option b: This statement directly supports the "coup" argument by highlighting that the delegates bypassed the legally established amendment procedures of the Articles of Confederation (which required unanimous consent from all thirteen states) to implement a new framework.
• Option c: This statement emphasizes the patriotic and ideological motivations of the delegates, which contradicts the critical framing of a "coup."
• Option d: This statement argues that the new structure was beneficial and protective of all citizens, which is a defense of the Constitution rather than a critique of how it was established.

Select the correct option

Option b is the only statement that provides evidence of an extra-legal, procedural bypass, which is the defining characteristic of a "coup d'état."

Answer:

• a.) The Constitutional Convention was a necessary attempt to defend the American Revolution against failure.
• b.) The Constitutional Convention bypassed the procedures outlined in the Articles of Confederation for amending the government. (Correct answer)
• c.) Delegates did their utmost to preserve American independence and the ideals of republicanism.
• d.) The creation of executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government was sufficient to protect the interests of all Americans.