What compromise involved representation by population in the House and equal representation in the Senate?

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Prepare for the UCF AMH2010 U.S. History: 1492-1877 Exam. Review with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, including hints and explanations. Boost your confidence and ace your test!

The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, effectively resolved the debate between larger and smaller states regarding legislative representation during the Constitutional Convention of 1787. This compromise established a bicameral legislature, which includes two distinct chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

In the House of Representatives, representation is based on population, meaning that states with larger populations have more representatives, allowing for proportional representation. This arrangement was favored by larger states that wanted their influence reflected in the legislature according to their population sizes.

Conversely, the Senate offers equal representation, granting each state two senators regardless of population. This aspect was crucial for smaller states that feared being overshadowed by the larger states. Thus, the Great Compromise balanced the interests of both large and small states by ensuring that all states had a voice in the Senate while also maintaining population-based representation in the House.

This compromise was vital for achieving consensus among the states and facilitating the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, showcasing the delicate balance necessary in a federal system.