The Anti-Federalists opposed the ratification of the 1787 U.S. Constitution because they feared that the new national government would be too powerful and thus threaten individual liberties , given the absence of a bill of rights.
What were the reasons for ratifying the Constitution?
The Federalists wanted a strong government and strong executive branch , while the anti-Federalists wanted a weaker central government. The Federalists did not want a bill of rights —they thought the new constitution was sufficient. The anti-federalists demanded a bill of rights.
What was the main federalist argument against ratifying the Constitution?
The Federalists felt that this addition wasn't necessary , because they believed that the Constitution as it stood only limited the government not the people. The Anti- Federalists claimed the Constitution gave the central government too much power, and without a Bill of Rights the people would be at risk of oppression.
What were two reasons why some people opposed the Constitution?
- There was no list of the people's rights.
- The national government was given too much power.
- The country was too big for the people to be represented by one national government.
What were the main arguments for and against ratification of the Constitution quizlet?
A argument there were three basic issues, whether the Constitution would maintain the republican government, the national government would have too much power, and the bill of rights was needed in the Constitution . 4. How did the federalists respond to the criticisms of the Constitution made by the Anti-federalists?
Did all 13 colonies ratify the Constitution?
On June 21, 1788, the Constitution became the official framework of the government of the United States of America when New Hampshire became the ninth of 13 states to ratify it. ... Under Article VII, it was agreed that the document would not be binding until its ratification by nine of the 13 existing states.
What was the process for ratifying the Constitution?
Congress must pass a proposed amendment by a two-thirds majority vote in both the Senate and the House of Representatives and send it to the states for ratification by a vote of the state legislatures . ... This process has been used for ratification of every amendment to the Constitution thus far.
How did the Federalists support the Constitution?
To ensure adoption of the Constitution, the Federalists, such as James Madison, promised to add amendments specifically protecting individual liberties . These amendments, including the First Amendment, became the Bill of Rights. James Madison later became a Democratic-Republican and opposed many Federalist policies.
What is the difference between Federalist and anti Federalist?
Those who supported the Constitution and a stronger national republic were known as Federalists. Those who opposed the ratification of the Constitution in favor of small localized government were known as Anti-Federalists. ... They did not share one unified position on the proper form of government.
Why should you be a Federalist?
Protection of the People's rights. Another reason why you should be a Federalist is because a strong, national government would protect the rights of the people . The Anti-Federalists say they like the people but stick with us you will be better.
Which principle was built in to the Constitution?
The Principles Underlying the Constitution
Federalism aside, three key principles are the crux of the Constitution: separation of powers, checks and balances, and bicameralism .
Who wrote the Constitution?
James Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution because of his pivotal role in the document's drafting as well as its ratification. Madison also drafted the first 10 amendments — the Bill of Rights.
When did the Constitution go into effect?
“The Ratification of the Conventions of nine States, shall be sufficient for the Establishment of this Constitution between the States so ratifying the Same.” On June 21, 1788, New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify; and the Confederation Congress established March 4, 1789 , as the date to begin operating a new ...
What was the greatest source of dissatisfaction with the new Constitution?
Perhaps the greatest source of dissatisfaction with the Constitution was that it did not guarantee protection of individual liberties . State governments had given jury trials to residents charged with violating the law and allowed their residents to possess weapons for their protection.
What impact did the Anti-Federalists have on the United States Constitution quizlet?
The Anti-Federalists believed the people's liberties needed protection from the government . Their pressure and threats to block ratification of the Constitution led the Federalists to agree to add a “Bill of Rights” to the Constitution if it were to be ratified.
What did the Federalists want the Constitution to provide quizlet?
For Federalists, the Constitution was necessary in order to protect the liberty and independence that was gained from the American Revolution. They believed that the three branches of the national government separated the powers and protected the rights of the people.
