1. The constitution was written by wealthy, powerful elites who were mainly landowners and slaveholders who held majority of the political and economic power. There was a large population who were excluded such as, poor farmers, debtors, women and the enslaved. Due to the property requirements and legal restrictions at the time, voting or participating in the government in general, was not allowed.

2. Early U.S society was deeply divided by class. Power and influence was held by a wealthy, select few. Today, voting rights have expanded but economic class still shapes political influence, since wealthy individuals and corporations have more control and can alter policies as they see fit. People within this bracket also have access to individuals who are connected to those with political power. The gap between the rich and working class Americans still exist even if the barriers have shifted.

3. The farmers feared that a more democratic system would let the poorer majority pass laws that threatened the wealthy and their economic advantages. Events like ‘Shays Rebellion’ showed them that poor farmers could organize against taxes and foreclosures. Beard points out that the elite opposed debt relief or printed paper money because it would reduce their profits. To further protect themselves they built limitations into the system such as the Electoral College and an unelected supreme court so that working class citizens had less direct control.