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In crafting a speech to the other delegates at the Constitutional Convention in May 1787, it's

crucial to consider the context of the time and the challenges faced by the young United
States. One essential element that you might argue for could be the inclusion of a Bill of
Rights in the new Constitution.

Here's a draft of how you could frame your argument:

Speech to the Delegates at the Constitutional Convention

Dear fellow delegates,

As we gather here in Philadelphia to draft a new Constitution for our young nation, we must
address one critical issue that has been overlooked in our previous attempts to form a more
perfect union: the need for a Bill of Rights.

A Bill of Rights is essential to safeguard the liberties and rights of our citizens against
potential abuses by the government. It serves as a bulwark against tyranny and ensures that
the principles of liberty and justice are enshrined in our foundational document.

History has shown us the dangers of unchecked governmental power. Without explicit
protections for individual rights, our government risks overstepping its bounds and infringing
upon the freedoms that we hold dear. A Bill of Rights will serve as a shield to protect our
citizens from such encroachments.

Furthermore, a Bill of Rights is not a novel concept. It has its roots in English common law
and has been championed by great thinkers such as John Locke and Montesquieu. Our own
Declaration of Independence speaks to the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of
happiness, which must be safeguarded by any just government.

I understand that there may be concerns about the inclusion of a Bill of Rights. Some argue
that it is unnecessary, as our government is founded on the principles of limited government
and the rule of law. Others fear that a Bill of Rights could be misinterpreted and lead to
unintended consequences.

To address these concerns, I propose that we carefully craft a Bill of Rights that is concise,
clear, and in line with the principles of our Constitution. We can draw upon the experiences
of other nations and incorporate safeguards to prevent the misuse of these rights.
In conclusion, a Bill of Rights is not only desirable but necessary for the preservation of our
republic. It is an essential part of the social contract between the government and the
governed, and we must ensure that it is included in our new Constitution.

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