“Anti-Federalist, Federalist, Bill of Rights Federalists: Favored ratification of the Constitution Favored a powerful federal government Argued a Bill of Rights was not needed, as federal power was limited “The Federalist Papers” Anti-Federalist: Opposed ratification of the Constitution Wanted a weak federal government that would not threat states rights Wanted a Bill of Rights to declare and protect the rights of the people. V Why was there such a debate over the ratification of the Constitution?

Mini-Lesson Ratification: Federalists promise addition of a Bill of Rights Ratification succeeded, new government formed 1789 James Madison drafts 10 amendments to the Constitution, these become the U.S. Bill of Rights

Let’s Practice! Who said it? See other side “Without a Bill of Rights, you will exhibit the most absurd thing to mankind that ever the world saw a government” Federalist or Antifederalist (circle one)  “This Constitution is said to have beautiful features; but when I come to examine these features, Sir, they appear to me horribly frightful…Your President may easily become King…”   “The prosperity of America depend[s] on the Union. To preserve and perpetuate [maintain] it was the great object of the. . . .plan which the Convention has advised [the people] to adopt. . . .”  “I will now tell you what I do no not like. First, [there is no] bill of rights. . . A bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth. . . .”