1. Ratification of the Constitution

2. Debate Over Ratification
Ratification– passage of an act or document
Americans for and against debated the constitution
Federalists– supporters/those in favor of the constitution

3. Anti-federalists– those who opposed the constitution
AF’s thought it gave too much power to central gov, also wanted a bill of rights
George Mason– leader of AF’s, also had Sam Adams, Patrick Henry, John Hancock

4. The Federalist Papers
Widely read papers about why people should vote for ratification (Federalists)
Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote the Federalist Papers
Papers told Americans that Federal Gov wouldn’t overpower the states

5. Ratification
A of C needed all 13 states to approve, Constitution needed 9 states to take effect
Most war heroes supported, people followed them
Delaware first to ratify, New Hampshire the 9th, (NC is 12th)
NY and VA don’t ratify until a bill of rights is promised