Ratifying the US Constitution

Agenda 1. Bell Ringer: How did the US Constitution divide powers between the National and State governments? (3) 2. Notes: Ratifying the US Constitution, A new Government (20) 3. Bill of Rights Comparison to Virginia Documents (15) 4. Quizlet Live Activity (25) 5. Vocabulary Matching Activity (15) 6. Q and A for Test (5) HW: Study for your test

Federalist v Antifederalist When the Constitution is initially published, people are worried about the immense changes. Many thought they were amending the articles of confederation. Each state had to hold a special convention for ratification. Did not include state legislatures, because they would not agree to the loss in power.

Federalists liked the balance between state and national government. Checks and balances would prevent a tyranny Anti-federalists were against the Constitution because of the strong central government. Government would only serve the interests of a rich minority, and there was a lack of protection for individual rights.

Opposing Viewpoints Urban Centers Rural Areas Most federalists were from urban areas, they were merchants and laborers that liked the idea of regulating trade and a common currency. Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, James Madison. Rural Areas Strong government will add to their tax burden. Patrick Henry, Samuel Adams, Richard Henry Lee.

Emergence of the Bill of Rights Federalists insist that the limited powers of the government provided by the Constitution would not violate rights of individuals or the states. They also felt that the power to vote would limit any abuses of the US Constitution. Nonetheless, anti-federalists and the general public wanted a Bill of Rights (Similar to England)

Major struggles were in Virginia and New York. The US Constitution is ratified with the addition of a Bill of Rights, and subsequent amendments would allow changes to the Constitution over time. Major struggles were in Virginia and New York. Richard Henry Lee claimed we were allowing an absolute ruler to take over. The Federalist Papers would change the antifederalist sentiment of New York. Officially becomes the government in 1789.