Creating the United States

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William Paterson Defends New Jersey Plan

William Paterson Defends New Jersey Plan (59.01.00)

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William Paterson (1745–1806) presented a plan of government to the Convention that came to be called the “New Jersey Plan.” Paterson wanted to retain a unicameral (one-house) legislature with equal votes of states and have the national legislature elect the executive. This plan maintained the form of government under the Articles of Confederation while adding powers to raise revenue and regulate commerce and foreign affairs.
* Currently on Exhibit