Following the slave uprising led by Nat Turner in 1831, the change in public sentiment compelled Virginians to speak openly in public and in the legislature about the institution they had guarded long in silence. The effect of Turner's insurrection was further conditioned by the growing sectional antagonism between the eastern and western portions…

Examines how the timing of Virginia's Ratification Convention twisted the principles of presumption and burden of proof in favor of the Federalists. Applies Richard Whately's rhetorical constructs to actual debates to analyze rhetorical strategies and voting behavior. Argues the need to modify the meaning of presumption and burden of proof. (KEH)