What’s important to highlight: The delegates who participated in the convention did not reflect the diversity then present in the nation. Many of the delegates were wealthy planters or lawyers. Many owned slaves. Since they
were not considered viable participants in the political process, women, blacks, and Native Americans were not represented at the convention. The leader of the convention was Revolutionary War hero, George Washington of Virginia. Washington assumed command of the debates, yet did not take part in the debates themselves. Benjamin Franklin, representing his adopted state of Pennsylvania, was the oldest delegate present at 81 years of age. James Madison, arguably the most prepared delegate, took copious notes during the confidential debates that followed. His role at the convention would eventually earn him the title, "Father of the Constitution".