5.3

Summarize the arguments for and against the ratification of the constitution. Describe how the Constitution was ratified. Explain the principles of the Constitution.

The Struggle Over Ratification Ratifying Conventions Principles of the New Constitution The Constitution Endures

Delegates figured out pretty quickly that getting Official approval for the ratification of the Articles of Confederation. They knew there was no way that all 13 states would approve it. Also they new the states wouldn’t go for it due to it limiting the states power some.

Federalist favor a strong government and supported the ratification. The Antifederalists feared a strong government and opposed the ratification, denouncing it as a retreat from the liberty won by the Revolution.

Federalist didn’t initially have the popular vote primarily due to farmers because the constitution would limit the power of the state. However, federalists gained quick momentum whenever people realized that the two most trusted men in the United States backed the Constitution. (George Washington Benjamin Franklin) Also the federalist were better organized and became better connected throughout the state.

The Federalist even though gaining momentum, were still facing defeat. They had to begin to sway some of the moderate Antifederalists. (ex. John Hancock) For his support they offered him Vice Presidency, support his key amendments, and adding in a bill of rights. Doing this and adding a bill of right gained most of the rest of the states support.

The principles of a representative government are: popular sovereignty, limited government, separation of powers, federalism, checks and balances and representative government. 1. Popular Sovereignty- The people are the only source of the government’s power. 2. Limited Government- The government has only the powers that the Constitution gives it.

3. Separation of powers: The government’s power is divided among three branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial branches. 4. Federalism: The federal government and the state governments share power. 5. Check and balances: Each branch of government has the power to limit the actions of the other two. 6. Representative government: Citizens elect representative to government to make laws.

The Constitution became the supreme law of the land in 1789 and with amendments has endured for more that 200 years. Since the Bill of Rights (first ten amendments) only 17 amendments have been added to the Constitution.