How many delegates to the Constitutional Convention refused to sign the document?

• A. 10
• B. 16
• C. 20
• D. 25

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is that 16 delegates to the Constitutional Convention refused to sign the final document. This convention took place in Philadelphia in 1787, where delegates formulated the U.S. Constitution. While the Constitution was ultimately ratified, not all delegates agreed with its contents or the process by which it was created.

The 16 delegates who chose not to sign included prominent figures such as George Mason and Elbridge Gerry, who had specific concerns about aspects of the Constitution. For instance, Mason was particularly worried about the lack of a bill of rights, which he felt was essential to protect individual liberties. The refusal to sign serves as an important historical indication of the differing opinions regarding the structure and content of the new government being established, highlighting the debates that were present even during the formation of the foundational legal framework of the United States.