Founding Fathers:
* George Washington: President of the convention, he was a respected military leader and held immense political sway. His presence lent credibility and prestige to the gathering.
* James Madison: Often called the "Father of the Constitution," Madison played a pivotal role in crafting the document. He brought extensive knowledge of government and political philosophy to the debates, leading to the creation of a strong federal government.
* Alexander Hamilton: A strong advocate for a centralized government, Hamilton was a skilled orator and strategist. He championed a powerful executive branch and a national bank.
* Benjamin Franklin: The oldest delegate at 81, Franklin brought wisdom and experience to the discussions. He often served as a mediator and helped ensure a compromise on many crucial issues.
* John Adams: Although not present due to his role as ambassador to Great Britain, Adams was a close confidant of many delegates and contributed significantly to the development of the Constitution through his writings and correspondence.
* Thomas Jefferson: Another influential Founding Father, Jefferson was absent from the convention due to his service as ambassador to France. However, he contributed to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, which laid the philosophical foundation for the Constitution.
Other Notable Figures:
* Roger Sherman: A delegate from Connecticut, Sherman played a key role in developing the Great Compromise, which established the bicameral legislature.
* James Wilson: A delegate from Pennsylvania, Wilson was a strong advocate for a strong central government. He also played a significant role in shaping the Supreme Court and the judiciary system.
* John Dickinson: A delegate from Delaware, Dickinson was a staunch advocate for states' rights. He contributed to the drafting of the Articles of Confederation and played a key role in the debates surrounding the balance of power.
* Gouverneur Morris: A delegate from Pennsylvania, Morris drafted the final version of the Constitution. He was a skilled writer and diplomat, and his efforts helped shape the language and structure of the document.
* Elbridge Gerry: A delegate from Massachusetts, Gerry was a prominent figure in the Anti-Federalist movement. He opposed the Constitution because he feared it would weaken the power of the states and lead to tyranny.
This is not an exhaustive list, and there were many other talented and influential individuals present at the Constitutional Convention. Each delegate brought their unique perspective and expertise to the table, contributing to the creation of a document that would shape the future of the United States.