1. Based on the arguments presented in Readings 6.1 and 6.2, which social class wrote the Constitution, and which class was excluded and not allowed to participate in this process? In your comment, make sure you clearly specify the difference between the two classes by giving examples from the readings.

Both readings demonstrate the exclusion of minorities and the despotism of the white upper class . During the creation of the constitution the exclusion of minorities such as “Native Americans, persons of African descent, women, indentured servants and White males lacking sufficient property“(6.1) was found irrelevant. There were four social classes in 1787 “the slaves, the indentured servants, the mass of men who could not qualify for voting under the property tests imposed by the state constitutions and laws, and women.”. Those that were able to vote and have a political opinion were those who owned land and money.

2. Would you say that the social class structure of early United States society, was the same as ours today, or different? Explain.

The social structure of early United States society is similar to that of today. Given the elimination of slavery and changes in women’s oppression, not much did change. The rich still control the United States and the lower classes rely on the rich for products and jobs. The system set up in 1787 was capitalism without the interference of government regulation to keep a somewhat fair economic field between the rich and poor. There is more opportunities now to increase the amount of money you earn as education was made free and available for all. -One of the major differences between then and now. Other than the reforms for minorities to have a voice in politics and regulation upon companies, the rich still hold the majority of power as it did back in 1787.

3. Why were the people who wrote the Constitution so afraid of democracy? Hint: think about how to answer this question by discussing it in terms of social classes.

 The purpose of the Constitution was not solely to provide order and form a united country. The Constitution guaranteed an “empowered national government, best safeguard(ed) for propertied interests.” Creating a democracy would call for the initiation of those in the lower classes to believe they could either rebel or participate in politics. -This is the opposite of what those in power wanted. The rich wanted to remain in governance and gain more capital. Democracy would call for a re-vote on most decisions that kept them at such a high and secure power level in comparison to others that also resided in the states.