What was the main objective of the Virginia Plan in the context of representation?

Study for the AMSCO AP United States History Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Get ready for your APUSH exam!

The main objective of the Virginia Plan was to establish a framework for the new government that favored larger states in terms of representation. This plan was drafted by James Madison and presented at the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It proposed a bicameral legislature, where representation in both houses would be based on population or financial contributions to the national government.

This arrangement meant that states with larger populations, such as Virginia, would have greater influence and more representatives than smaller states. Consequently, the Virginia Plan sought to create a stronger national government with the ability to address issues effectively and represent the interests of the more populous states. This was in contrast to other proposals, such as the New Jersey Plan, which aimed to maintain equal representation for all states regardless of size or population.

In summary, the correct answer reflects the Virginia Plan's emphasis on representation that benefitted larger states, marking a pivotal moment in the discussions that led to the creation of the United States Constitution.

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