Meaning: The quote you provided is from Caleb Cushing, a prominent American diplomat and politician who played a significant role in shaping the early years of the United States. The quote refers to the period of debate and negotiation surrounding the adoption of the United States Constitution in the late 18th century. It reflects the complex and nuanced discussions that took place among the framers and supporters of the Constitution as they worked to address concerns about the balance of power between the federal government and the individual states.

In order to fully understand the quote, it is essential to provide some historical context. After the United States won its independence from Britain in 1783, the country operated under the Articles of Confederation, a loose alliance of states with a weak central government. However, it soon became clear that the Articles of Confederation were inadequate for governing the new nation effectively. This led to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where delegates from the states gathered to draft a new framework for government.

The proposed plan of government mentioned in the quote is the United States Constitution, which was the result of the Constitutional Convention. The process of ratifying the Constitution and gaining approval from the states was not without controversy. Many Anti-Federalists, who were wary of a strong central government, expressed concerns about the potential for the new constitution to infringe upon the rights of the states and the people. This sentiment is captured in Cushing's quote, as he acknowledges that some supporters of the Constitution advocated for additional provisions to safeguard the rights of the states and the people.

The quote reflects the complex negotiation and compromise that characterized the ratification process. It highlights the fact that the acceptance of the proposed plan of government was not unconditional; rather, it was often accompanied by recommendations for amendments or additions to address specific concerns. These concerns centered on the protection of individual liberties, the distribution of powers between the federal and state governments, and the preservation of the principles of federalism and checks and balances.

Caleb Cushing, the author of the quote, was a prominent figure in this historical context. As a diplomat and politician, he was involved in the debates and discussions surrounding the ratification of the Constitution. His words capture the spirit of the time, reflecting the nuanced and multifaceted nature of the discussions that took place as the nation grappled with the fundamental questions of governance and liberty.

In the end, the Constitution was ratified with the understanding that a Bill of Rights would be added to address the concerns raised by Anti-Federalists and others. The first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, were added to the Constitution in 1791, enshrining key protections for individual liberties and further defining the relationship between the federal government and the states.

In conclusion, the quote by Caleb Cushing captures the complexities and nuances of the debates surrounding the adoption of the United States Constitution. It reflects the concerns of those who supported the Constitution but also sought to ensure that the rights of the states and the people were adequately protected. This historical context provides insight into the challenges and compromises that shaped the early years of the United States and laid the foundation for the enduring principles of American government and governance.