Definition

Proper noun: - William Patterson: An American Revolutionary leader, born in Ireland, who served as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. He is known for proposing the New Jersey Plan, which advocated for equal representation of states in the national legislature.

Usage Notes

• "William Patterson" refers specifically to this historical figure. It is used in historical and political contexts when discussing the founding of the United States, the Constitutional Convention, or debates over the structure of the U.S. government.
• As a proper noun, it is always capitalized.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • William Patterson presented the New Jersey Plan as an alternative to the Virginia Plan.
  • The contributions of William Patterson were crucial in shaping the debate over state representation.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Reference: The name is used to denote a specific political position or philosophy during the Constitutional Convention, particularly the argument for equal state sovereignty.
  • The convention was divided between the supporters of Madison's Virginia Plan and the supporters of William Patterson's New Jersey Plan.

Variants and Related Words

• Patterson: A common surname; when used alone in historical context, it may refer to William Patterson, but requires clear contextual clues.
• New Jersey Plan: The proposal introduced by William Patterson at the Constitutional Convention.

Synonyms

• Paterson: An alternate, less common spelling of the surname. The city of Paterson, New Jersey, is named for him.
• Delegate Patterson: A formal reference in historical narratives.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• The New Jersey Plan: Often directly associated with William Patterson.
  • William Patterson is forever linked to the New Jersey Plan, which favored small states.
• The Constitutional Convention of 1787: The primary event with which he is associated.
  • Key figures like James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and William Patterson debated fiercely.

Noun

1. American Revolutionary leader (born in Ireland) who was a member of the Constitutional Convention (1745-1806)