Why did Franklin think was surprising that the constitution was as good as it was

Answer 1

Consider the following: The American colonies were very regional-centric before and after the Revolution (think of the modern day version of identification as an American or from some other country, there's a certain pride in where you come from). Each state had its own priorities, often in conflict with other states (such as slavery vs non-slavery). Some states just flat out hated each other (think of any football team and their arch-rivals). And there was also the fact that if the people did not agree with their elected officials it was not unknown of them to storm their houses and pull them into the streets, beating them and tar and feathering them (not just a comedic cartoon joke). Trying to get all these components together to form a reasonable and well developed Constitution was nothing short of a miracle brought about by sheer determination and hard work. That is not to say it was perfect (thats why we have the Amendments) but it was a good start for our nation.