Founders Revolution: A Brief History on George Mason.

Founders Revolution: A Brief History on George Mason.: From: U-S-History.com George Mason was never a holder of high office, but he was one of the most consistent voices for the protection of A...

In postwar Virginia, Mason urged the cession of western land claims, a view that was not shared by speculators and the frontier population. Acting somewhat out of character, Mason agreed to attend the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787, his concern for the wellbeing of the nation outweighing his inclination to stay at home. He was a major participant in the proceedings, but was deeply disappointed in the result. His criticisms of the final document included:

The lack of a bill of rights, a position fully consistent with his longtime advocacy of individual liberties

The centralization of too much power in the federal government; he was especially suspicious about the roles planned for the Senate and the federal judiciary

The constitutional recognition given to the institution of slavery. Despite being a slaveowner, Mason felt that all slaves should be freed, and that it was unconscionable for the new government to trumpet liberty, but deny it totally to the slaves.