1. Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists
Thomas Jefferson Alexander Hamilton
Anti-Federalist Federalist

2. Ratification of the Constitution
The Constitution was approved by the delegates on September 17, It was sent to the states for ratification on September 28, 1787.

3. Two sides emerge Federalists- Led by James Madison and
Alexander Hamilton. These framers were
pro-constitution and believed that a more
powerful central government was needed.
Anti-Federalists- Led by Patrick Henry, John
Hancock and Samuel Adams. Felt too much
power was given to the central government
and not enough to the states.

4. Twisting of arms Thomas Jefferson was an ardent anti-
federalist, however, George Washington and
James Madison were able to convince him
to assist in getting Virginia to ratify the
Constitution.

5. The Federalist Papers
85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay. Set out arguments for the new Constitution in an effort to get the New York legislature to ratify it. One of the most important literary works in US history.

6. Inauguration of the New Government
The new Congress convened on March 4, 1789.
It would meet to count electoral votes that would determine the first President of the United States.
On April 6, by unanimous vote, George Washington is elected our first President.