In 1787, the Constitutional Convention took place in Philadelphia, where delegates gathered to address the inadequacies of the Articles of Confederation. They debated various aspects of governance, including representation, the powers of the federal government, and the rights of states.

Read the following excerpt from James Madison's notes during the Convention:

“In the first place, they will be good or bad only as the great mass of the people are good or bad; an excellent government can be administered only by an excellent people.”

Based on this primary source, analyze Madison's perspective on the relationship between the character of the people and the effectiveness of government. Use evidence from the excerpt to support your analysis. Make sure to explain how Madison's viewpoint reflects the broader debates of the Constitutional Convention.