What was the purpose of the Constitutional Convention of 1787?

The purpose of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 was primarily to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. The Articles had created a loose confederation of states that proved ineffective in governing a growing nation. Issues such as interstate commerce, lack of a strong central authority, and the inability to levy taxes were significant challenges that prompted the need for a new framework of government.

Delegates from various states convened in Philadelphia to discuss and draft a new constitution that would create a stronger federal government while balancing the rights and powers of individual states. The outcome of this gathering was the United States Constitution, which established a federal system with distinct legislative, executive, and judicial branches, addressing many of the functional shortcomings of the Articles of Confederation.

The other options address different historical contexts or events. Declaring independence from Britain occurred earlier, during the American Revolution. While the Bill of Rights, which safeguards individual liberties, was important, it was introduced after the Constitution was ratified as amendments, not as the primary purpose of the Convention. Lastly, proposing a new tax plan for the states was not a central agenda of the Convention, although the Constitution ultimately allowed the federal government to levy taxes.