Which of the following is a similarity between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan?

At a time when the newly formed United States of America was still finding its footing, two significant plans emerged in the heated debates about the structure of the federal government. The Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan, both proposed during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, had their similarities and differences. In this blog post, we will delve into one particular similarity between these two plans that could be represented by overlapping circles in a graph. By exploring this shared aspect, we can gain a better understanding of the early stages of American democracy and the intricate discussions that shaped our nation’s government.

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Similarities Between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan

Historical Context

In order to understand the similarities between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan, we must first take a trip back in time to the year 1787. Ah, the good ol’ days when men wore powdered wigs and debates were settled with quill pens!

A Tug-of-War for Representation

Now, picture this: a room full of brilliant minds, gathered together to figure out how to create a better system of government. On one side, we have the Virginia Plan, championed by the larger states. And on the other side, we have the New Jersey Plan, representing the interests of the smaller states.

Size Matters…But Not Always

While the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan had their fair share of differences, there was at least one key similarity that could fit into the overlapping circles in the graph above. And that similarity is all about representation!

A Shared Goal

Both plans recognized the need for a central government with the power to make and enforce laws. They both aimed to strike a delicate balance between the states and the federal government. They understood that unity was crucial, but they also wanted to ensure that each state had a voice in the decision-making process. Talk about a high-wire act!

The Great Compromise

Ultimately, this shared goal led to what is famously known as the Great Compromise. This compromise took elements from both the Virginia and New Jersey Plans and created a bicameral legislature. A fancy term, I know. It basically means we have two houses of Congress: the Senate, giving equal representation to each state, and the House of Representatives, giving larger states more representation based on population.

Finding Common Ground

Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of compromise. It’s like when you and your friends can’t decide where to eat, so you settle on a place that serves both pizza and tacos. Everyone’s happy! Well, maybe not the indecisive ones…

In essence, the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan shared a common desire for a government that would protect the interests of all states while maintaining a sense of fairness and balance.

Wrapping Up

And there you have it! Despite their differences, the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan found some common ground in their pursuit of effective representation. So, next time you’re caught in a debate, remember the power of compromise. It might just lead to great things, just like it did back in 1787.

Now go forth and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of early American government!

FAQ: Exploring Similarities between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan

Welcome to our FAQ section, where we dive deep into the fascinating historical connection between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan. Prepare yourself for some enlightening answers to commonly asked questions about these influential plans which played a pivotal role in shaping the United States we know today.

What did the Virginia Plan want quizlet

The Virginia Plan, created by the visionary James Madison, proposed a strong national government with three separate branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. It aimed to establish a bicameral legislature, giving more power to larger states based on population. The plan sought to replace the weak Articles of Confederation with a more effective and centralized government.

What was the quasi-war caused by

Ah, the “quasi-war,” an interesting term! This refers to the tense period between the United States and France from 1798 to 1800. It was caused by disputes arising from the French Revolution and France’s resentment towards America’s support for Britain. Though it wasn’t an actual war, there were naval conflicts and heightened animosity.

What was the New Jersey plan similar to

The New Jersey Plan, put forth by the brilliant William Paterson, presented an alternative to the Virginia Plan during the Constitutional Convention. It proposed a unicameral legislature, ensuring equal representation for each state, regardless of size or population. This plan aimed to protect the interests of smaller states, much like a cuddly bear protecting its honey.

What combined elements from both the Virginia and New Jersey plans

Ah, here we have a historical hybrid! The Connecticut Compromise, also known as the Great Compromise, merged elements from both the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan. It gave us the unique blend of having a bicameral legislature, with one chamber, the House of Representatives, based on population, and the other, the Senate, providing equal representation for each state. This compromise helped bridge the gap between large and small states like a bridge over troubled waters.

Who wrote the New Jersey plan

The New Jersey Plan, crafted with finesse and care, can be credited to the brilliant mind of William Paterson. His plan sought to ensure that smaller states would have an equal say in the legislative process, preventing them from feeling like the odd cactus in a flower field.

Which of the following is a similarity between the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey plan that could fit into the overlapping circles in the graph above

We’ve reached an intriguing point! The overlapping circles in the graph above highlight a similarity between the Virginia and New Jersey Plans – the existence of a proposed legislature. Both plans recognized the importance of having a system of representation and governance. It’s like finding hidden treasure when you spot these commonalities!


We hope you found these FAQs entertaining and enlightening! The historical significance of the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan cannot be overstated, for they laid the foundation upon which our remarkable nation was built. Now, go forth and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of these intricate plans!

Please note: This FAQ section is for informational purposes only. For a deeper understanding and academic exploration, we encourage you to consult additional resources or hop on a time machine to experience history firsthand.

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