Final answer:
The first national convention in American history was the Constitutional Convention, which met in Philadelphia in May of 1787 and resulted in the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787.
Step-by-step explanation:
First National Convention in American History
The first national convention in American history was the Constitutional Convention, which was convened in Philadelphia in May of 1787. This gathering of delegates was initially intended to revise the Articles of Confederation but eventually led to the creation of a new constitution. The Annapolis Convention of 1786 played a key role in leading up to this historic Philadelphia convention. Despite varying objectives at different times, national conventions have been critical in shaping the political and constitutional landscape of the United States.
Shays' Rebellion spurred the urgency for the Constitutional Convention, and the work done during this convention culminated on September 17, 1787, a day that marks the signing of the U.S. Constitution. While the specific purpose of some conventions may have related to economic troubles or the workings of the government, the general intent has been to address pressing issues of the day that require collective agreement and action.