Gunning Bedford, Jr. facts for kids

Gunning Bedford, Jr. (born in 1747 – died March 30, 1812) was an important American lawyer and politician. He came from Wilmington, Delaware. He is best known for helping to create the United States Constitution.

Early Life and Education

Gunning Bedford, Jr. was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He went to college at what is now Princeton University. He was a very good student. After college, he studied law. He became a lawyer and started his career in Delaware.

A Voice for Delaware

Bedford was a strong voice for his home state, Delaware. He served in the Continental Congress from 1783 to 1785. This was a very important group of leaders. They helped govern the young United States before the Constitution was written.

The Constitutional Convention

In 1787, Bedford was chosen to represent Delaware at the Constitutional Convention. This meeting was held in Philadelphia. Its goal was to write a new plan for the government of the United States.

At the Convention, Bedford was a champion for smaller states. States like Delaware worried that larger states would have too much power. Bedford argued that all states, big or small, should have an equal say. His efforts helped lead to the "Great Compromise." This agreement created two parts of Congress:

• The House of Representatives, where states get votes based on their population.
• The Senate, where every state gets two votes, no matter its size.

This compromise made sure that both large and small states felt fairly represented. Bedford was one of the people who signed the new United States Constitution.

Later Life and Legacy

After the Constitution was signed, President George Washington chose Bedford for an important job. He became a federal judge for the District of Delaware. He served in this role until he passed away.

Gunning Bedford, Jr. is remembered as a dedicated public servant. He played a key role in shaping the United States government. He helped make sure that all states had a fair voice.

Images for kids

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  Gunning Bedford Jr. Memorial at Wilmington and Brandywine Cemetery

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  Close Up of Gunning Bedford Jr. Memorial

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  Close up of plaque at base of Gunning Bedford, Jr. Memorial