What key event led to the drafting of the Constitution in 1787?

The drafting of the Constitution in 1787 was directly initiated by the Constitutional Convention. This meeting was convened in Philadelphia to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which had proven inadequate in effectively governing the newly independent states. Delegates from various states came together with the purpose of creating a stronger federal government that could address issues such as economic instability, interstate commerce, and national defense.

The Convention resulted in the formulation of a new government structure outlined in the U.S. Constitution, which established a system of checks and balances among three branches of government. This foundational document was signed on September 17, 1787, marking a pivotal moment in American history, as it replaced the Articles of Confederation and laid the groundwork for the current federal government. The other options, while significant events in American history, did not directly lead to the drafting of the Constitution.