Ratifying the Constitution

Federalists vs Anti-Federalists

Let the Debate Begin! After spending an entire summer in Philadelphia writing a new constitution the representatives had to go home and convince their states to ratify (sign) the new constitution. In some states a heated debate occurred over ratification. Some people felt the Convention had exceeded their power by drafting a new constitution, others felt that the new government set the stage for a monarchical regime (king) In the end people fell into one of two camps: Federalist or Anti-Federalist

Anti-Federalists Anti-federalists opposed the new Constitution They felt it threatened the security of the people and was designed to create another tyrant -No adequate limit to the power of legislature -President has the unlimited right to pardon - Federal courts have the power to destroy state courts Anti-federalists did not trust the federal government and wanted to have most of the power rest with the states Virginia, New York, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Rhode Island had large Anti-federalist groups Anti-federalists also worried that no personal freedoms were guaranteed (Bill of Rights)

The Federalists Federalists were in support of the Constitution They argued that a strong national government was necessary to keep the country running. -A government with checks and balances and separation of powers is the best way to promote republicanism -The representation of different interests will protect people’s rights Federalists had strong support in Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia and Connecticut. In an attempt to sway public opinion in favor of the Constitution in Virginia, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay wrote 85 letters which were published in local papers. They became known as the Federalist Papers.

Compromise In order to gain enough votes to ratify the Federalist states had to agree to add a Bill of Rights to the Constitution The Bill of Rights contains ten amendments (changes) to the Constitution The Bill of Rights secure the citizens right to free speech, right to bear arms, freedom of religion, trial by jury, protection from unreasonable search and seizure, etc.