What was one major outcome of the Great Compromise?

• A. Establishment of a direct democracy
• B. Creation of a unicameral legislature
• C. Formation of a federal judiciary
• D. Creation of a bicameral legislature

Answer: (D)

The Great Compromise, also known as the Connecticut Compromise, was a significant result of the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It addressed the contentious debate between states with larger populations, which favored representation based on population size, and smaller states that wanted equal representation regardless of size. The compromise established a bicameral legislature, which consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

In the House of Representatives, representation is based on the population of each state, allowing larger states to have more influence in this chamber. Conversely, the Senate gives each state equal representation, with two Senators per state, regardless of population. This dual system balanced the needs of both large and small states, ensuring that all voices were heard in the legislative process. The establishment of a bicameral legislature is a cornerstone of the federal government and was crucial in shaping the legislative branch as part of the United States Constitution.