essay supporting ratification

The Ratification Debate on the Constitution

Written by: bill of rights institute, by the end of this section, you will:.

• Explain the differing ideological positions on the structure and function of the federal government

Suggested Sequencing

Use this Narrative with the Were the Anti-Federalists Unduly Suspicious or Insightful Political Thinkers? Point-Counterpoint and the Federalist/Anti-Federalist Debate on Congress’s Powers of Taxation DBQ Lesson to have students analyze the debate between Federalists and Anti-Federalists.

On September 19, 1787, the Pennsylvania Packet newspaper published the draft of the Constitution for the consideration of the people and their representatives. On September 28, the Confederation Congress voted to send the Constitution to the state legislatures as written, so state conventions could be called to decide whether to ratify the new framework of government.

During the year-long debates over ratification, supporters of the Constitution called themselves Federalists; as a result, their opponents were known as Anti-Federalists. At the center of the often-contentious arguments that took place in homes, taverns, and on the printed page was the federal principle of balancing national and state power. Federalists defended the Constitution’s strengthened national government, with its greater congressional powers, more powerful executive, and independent judiciary. They argued that the new government supported the principles of separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism. Anti-Federalists, on the other hand, worried that the proposed constitution represented a betrayal of the principles of the American Revolution. Had not Americans fought a war against the consolidation of power in a distant, central government that claimed unlimited powers of taxation? They feared a large republic in which the government, like the Empire from which they had declared independence, was unresponsive to the people. They also feared that a corrupt senate, judiciary, and executive would conspire to form an aristocracy. Finally, they argued against the absence of a bill of rights. States had them, in no small part because they remembered the English Bill of Rights of 1689, which had helped focus attention on the ways in which the British government abused its power.

Through September and October, various Anti-Federalists published essays under pseudonyms like Brutus, Cato, and the Federal Farmer in New York newspapers critiquing the Constitution. Although they did not coordinate their efforts, a coherent set of principles about government and opposition to the proposed Constitution emerged. Alexander Hamilton noted that the “artillery of [the Constitution’s] opponents makes some impression.”

In mid-October, for a series of essays he planned to defend the Constitution from critics, Hamilton enlisted the contributions of Madison, the “father of the Constitution,” as well as John Jay, the president of the Continental Congress and a New York diplomat. The first of these Federalist essays was published in a New York newspaper, under the pseudonym Publius, on October 27. It was addressed to the people of New York but was aimed at the delegates to the state’s Ratifying Convention. In it, Hamilton described the meaning of the choice the states would make:

It seems to have been reserved to the people of this country, by their conduct and example, to decide the important question, whether societies of men are really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend for their political constitutions on accident and force.

Alexander Hamilton, shown in an 1806 portrait by John Trumbull, was the driving force behind The Federalist Paper sand wrote fifty-one of the essays arguing for ratification.

By mid-January, 1788, five states (Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania) had ratified the Constitution. The Federalists were building momentum toward the nine states they needed to win, but they knew the main opposition would come from Anti-Federalists in large and powerful states, including Massachusetts, New York, and Virginia.

The Anti-Federalists were also mounting an effective opposition in essays and debates. Some demanded prior amendments to be sent to a second convention before they would accept the new government. During the debate in Massachusetts, opposition forced the Federalists to promise to consider amendments protecting the liberties of the people after the Constitution was ratified as written. On February 6, Massachusetts became the sixth state to approve the Constitution by a narrow vote of 187 to 168.

In New Hampshire, the Federalists thought they did not have enough votes to ratify, so they strategically adjourned the convention until June so that they could muster more support. Two other states, Maryland and South Carolina, met that spring and overwhelmingly ratified the Constitution, bringing the total to eight. Still, to be considered legitimate the Constitution would need the support of Virginia and New York, because of their political and economic influence and geographical location, even if the approval of nine other states met the constitutional threshold for the new government to go into operation.

On March 22, Hamilton and Madison arranged for the first thirty-six Federalist essays to be published in book form and distributed copies to friends in hope of influencing the delegates to the New York and Virginia ratifying conventions. Because the outcome remained highly uncertain, a second volume including the rest of the eighty-five essays was published on May 28. George Washington praised The Federalist for throwing “new lights upon the science of government” and giving “the rights of man a full and fair discussion.” Thomas Jefferson said it was “the best commentary on the principles of government which ever was written.” The Anti-Federalist essays contributed important reflections on human nature and the character of a republican government in making arguments about why the writers thought the proposed Constitution dangerously expanded the powers of the central government.

When the Virginia Convention met on June 2, a titanic debate took place as two Federalist masters of political debate, Madison and John Marshall, clashed with George Mason and the fiery orator Patrick Henry. Among other Virginians, Washington stayed above the debate, although everyone knew he supported the Constitution, and Jefferson, then in Paris, at first opposed and then supported ratification with prior amendments, because he favored a bill of rights.

Railing against the Constitution, Henry warned that the states would lose their sovereignty in a Union of “we the people” instead of “we the states.” He cautioned that a powerful national government would violate natural rights and civil liberties, thus destroying “the rights of conscience, trial by jury, liberty of the press . . . all pretentions to human rights and privileges, are rendered insecure, if not lost, by this change.” Henry also thundered that the president would lead a standing army against the people.

Madison countered with a line-by-line exposition of the reasoning behind each clause of the Constitution. On June 25, the Virginia Convention voted 89 to 79 for ratification.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Federalists dominated the New York Convention three to one. Hamilton passionately defended the Constitution and urged his allies in Virginia and New Hampshire to send word of the outcomes in those two states by express rider to influence the New York debate. New Yorkers soon learned that the Constitution had officially become the fundamental law of the land for the states adopting it. The question was now whether New York would join the new federal union. On July 26, by a narrow vote of 30 to 27, New York answered in the affirmative, conditionally ratifying the Constitution with a call for another convention to propose a bill of rights. Only after Congress voted in 1789 to send amendments to the states for approval did North Carolina and Rhode Island vote to ratify the new Constitution.

The sovereign people participated in a great deliberative moment in which they ultimately decided to accept a new Constitution with a central government wielding greater powers to protect their rights, safety, and happiness. The formal and informal deliberations about the principles of government defined the republican nature of the new U.S. government. Meanwhile, the spirit of compromise that yielded not only ratification but also, at the urging of Anti-Federalists, the adoption of the Bill of Rights, reflected genuine patriotism by the people who served the public good and suggested that the Americans were capable of self-government.

Review Questions

1. Who of the following were key advocates for the Constitution?

• Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison
• John Jay, George Mason, and James Madison
• Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and Edmund Randolph
• George Mason, Patrick Henry, and Edmund Randolph

2. Who of the following refused to sign the Constitution because, in their opinion, it gave too much power to the federal government?

• George Mason, Elbridge Gerry, and Edmund Randolph

3. What key feature, which many Anti-Federalists argued was essential, was missing from the original Constitution?

• A due process clause
• A decision on the issue of the slave trade
• A bill of rights
• Multiple branches of government

4. Which of the following was the primary source of disagreement between the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists when debating the merits of the Constitution?

• Inclusion of clauses that acknowledge slavery and included slaves in representation
• Size and scope of the federal government balanced with that of the states
• Ability to conduct foreign affairs at the federal level only
• Possibility of the legislative branch requiring taxes at the state level

5. The Anti-Federalists’ distrust of corrupt elite politicians is best exemplified by their adamant insistence on the

• electoral college, which would elect the president
• Supreme Court Justices, who would be elected not appointed
• Bill of Rights, which articulated the rights of each person
• executive position, which would be eligible for reelection

6. One advantage the Federalists had during the ratification debate was that

• many smaller state governments were open to the concept of a stronger federal government
• highly organized authors published essay after essay supporting and explaining the new form of government
• the large and influential states of New York and Virginia were eager to ratify the Constitution as soon as possible
• almost unanimous support for the Constitution existed in every state

7. Many Anti-Federalists argued that the Constitution’s strong national government was

• absolutely necessary to protect the sovereignty of the nation
• too similar to the monarchy from which colonists had fought to be free
• carefully crafted to prevent any abuses of private citizens
• akin to the Articles of Confederation, which required no change

8. How did the debate for ratification ultimately end?

• Not enough states voted to ratify and the Constitution did not become the government of the United States,
• The minimum number of states ratified the Constitution, so it became the law of the land, but only for the states that accepted it.
• Each state ultimately ratified the Constitution, despite close votes and thorough debates.
• Debates continue on the merits of the Constitution, and a few states still need to hold their ratifying convention.

Free Response Questions

• How did the ratification debate demonstrate republicanism in the United States’ founding?
• How was the deliberative process of making and ratifying the Constitution a key moment in the history of republics?

AP Practice Questions

The Federal Pillars.

1. The image shown best supports which argument of the ratification debate?

• The need for a bill of rights to curtail the powers of the central government and guarantee people’s individual liberties
• The potential destruction of deliberation and creation of rival factions
• The view that states need to stand individually without an overarching, omnipotent central government
• The need for states to support and ratify the Constitution to guarantee the existence of a republican union

“In the course of the preceding observations, I have had an eye, my fellow-citizens, to putting you upon your guard against all attempts, from whatever quarter, to influence your decision in a matter of the utmost moment to your welfare, by any impressions other than those which may result from the evidence of truth. You will, no doubt, at the same time, have collected from the general scope of them, that they proceed from a source not unfriendly to the new Constitution. Yes, my countrymen, I own to you that, after having given it an attentive consideration, I am clearly of opinion it is your interest to adopt it. I am convinced that this is the safest course for your liberty, your dignity, and your happiness. I affect not reserves which I do not feel. I will not amuse you with an appearance of deliberation when I have decided. I frankly acknowledge to you my convictions, and I will freely lay before you the reasons on which they are founded. The consciousness of good intentions disdains ambiguity. I shall not, however, multiply professions on this head. My motives must remain in the depository of my own breast. My arguments will be open to all, and may be judged of by all. They shall at least be offered in a spirit which will not disgrace the cause of truth.”

Alexander Hamilton, The Federalist Papers: No. 1 , October 27, 1787

2. Which of the following best describes the purpose of The Federalist essays?

• To promote the advantages of states’ rights
• To convince delegates and people to support the Constitution to secure ratification
• To narrate the ongoing deliberations at the ratification conventions
• To outline characteristics of a new form of government to be included in the Constitution

3. Which of the following is an accurate statement about Anti-Federalist and Federalist beliefs in constitutional principles?

• Anti-Federalists argued for the value of limited central government, whereas Federalists maintained that natural rights to life, liberty, and property would be best protected under a strong central government.
• Anti-Federalists supported the idea of a strong executive elected by the consent of the governed, whereas Federalists argued for states’ rights and cooperation of the states as a confederacy.
• Anti-Federalists asserted that the rule of law would best serve the people of the United States, whereas Federalists promoted a limited government and cooperation of the states.
• Anti-Federalists advocated for republicanism and self-governance, whereas Federalists argued that a representative government could be legitimized only through cooperation with international allies.

“Amendment I. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. Amendment II. A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. Amendment III. No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.”

The United States Bill of Rights, 1789

4. Which of the following pieces of outside evidence provides context for this document?

• Many citizens were concerned that individual rights were not expressed in the Constitution and demanded the addition.
• The Founders wanted to follow in the footsteps of Great Britain by adding a bill of rights.
• Women felt strongly their needs were not being met by the Constitution and held a convention of their own, resulting in this document.
• After intense debate, state conventions decided this document would replace the Constitution.

5. Which of the following did not influence the addition of the Bill of Rights?

• Actions taken by the British government before and during the Revolution inspired some of the amendments.
• State constitutions had articulated many of these rights prior to the Constitution.
• Political factions demanded clarification of inalienable rights to support the Constitution’s ratification.
• The French alliance inspired the founders to adopt the French form of government.

6. Which of the following explains why the amendments provided were not included in the original Constitution?

• State delegations at the Convention argued that additional amendments were unnecessary because most states already had a Bills of Rights.
• The Founders published the Constitution in newspapers and forgot to include the page with these amendments.
• The Founders were influenced by the British tradition of unwritten government that relied on precedent.
• Delegates at the convention were unable to reach a quorum to vote on these items, because the summer was over and many had already headed home.

7. Which political faction primarily advocated the document excerpted previously?

• Federalists
• Anti-Federalists

Primary Sources

Hamilton, Alexander. The Federalist 1 . American History. University of Groningen. http://www.let.rug.nl/usa/documents/1786-1800/the-federalist-papers/the-federalist-1.php

U.S. Constitution . Yale Law School. http://avalon.law.yale.edu/18th_century/usconst.asp

Suggested Resources

Allen, W.B. and Gordon Lloyd, eds. The Essential Anti-Federalist . Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield, 2002.

Bailyn, Bernard, ed. The Debate on the Constitution: Federalist and Anti-Federalist Speeches, Articles, and Letters During the Struggle over Ratification . 2 vols. New York: Library of America, 1993.

Carey, George W. and James McClellan. The Federalist: The Gideon Edition . Indianapolis: Liberty Fund, 2001.

Cornell, Saul. The Other Founders: Anti-Federalism and the Dissenting Tradition in America, 1788-1828 . Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1999.

Ketcham, Ralph, ed. The Anti-Federalist Papers and the Constitutional Convention Debates . New York: New American Library, 1986.

Lloyd, Gordon. “The Federalist-Antifederalist Debate.” TeachingAmericanHistory.org. http://teachingamericanhistory.org/founding/

Lloyd, Gordon. “The Ratification of the United States Constitution.” TeachingAmericanHistory.org. http://teachingamericanhistory.org/founding/

Maier, Pauline. Ratification: The People Debate the Constitution, 1787-1788 . New York: Simon & Schuster, 2010.

Main, Jackson Turner. The Anti-Federalists: Critics of the Constitution, 1781-1788 . Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1961.

Meyerson, Michael I. Liberty’s Blueprint: How Madison and Hamilton Wrote the Federalist Papers, Defined the Constitution, and Made Democracy Safe for the World . New York: Basic, 2008.

Morris, Richard B. Witnesses at the Creation: Hamilton, Madison, Jay, and the Constitution. New York: Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, 1985.

Rakove, Jack. Original Meanings: Politics and Ideas in the Making of the Constitution . New York: Vintage, 1996.

Storing, Herbert. What the Anti-Federalists were For: The Political Thought of the Opponents of the Constitution</e

Related Content

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness

In our resource history is presented through a series of narratives, primary sources, and point-counterpoint debates that invites students to participate in the ongoing conversation about the American experiment.

The Constitutional Convention and Debates over Ratification — APUSH 3.8 Notes, Review, and Terms

The Constitutional Convention and Debates over Ratification is Topic 3.8 of the AP US History curriculum. This topic covers the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and the major issues and compromises that led to the development of the United States Constitution.

Signing of the Constitution , Howard Chandler Christy, 1940. Image Source: Architect of the Capitol .

By 1787, only four years after the official end of the American Revolutionary War, many Americans were convinced that the new nation could not survive under the weak central government established by the Articles of Confederation . 

Following two previous attempts to address growing concerns about the state of the nation — the Mount Vernon Conference (1785) and the Annapolis Convention (1786) — delegates from 12 of the 13 states assembled in Philadelphia during the summer of 1787 to revise the Articles of Confederation as authorized by Congress. However, the delegates soon developed other ideas and instead undertook the task of drafting an entirely new document. 

Throughout a summer of heated debate and enlightened compromise between Federalists and Anti-Federalists , the delegates drafted a new Constitution that did far more than strengthen the authority of the central government. 

Their work redefined relationships between the individual states and between the states and the central government. More importantly, though, it redefined relationships between the federal government and U.S. citizens. As the balance shifted from a loose confederation of 13 states that wielded their individual powers, a new government emerged, created by “We, the people of the United States.” 

At the start, the Constitution lacked a Bill of Rights and neglected large portions of the populace, notably women and people of African descent. However, when judged by the standards of the time, the work of the delegates was truly revolutionary, creating a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” Further, it created a model that could be amended over time, allowing rights and freedoms to be extended to the very groups it initially neglected.

Thematic Focus

APUSH Topic 3.8’s thematic focus is “Politics and Power.” During the Philadelphia Convention of 1787 and the ensuing State Conventions, significant debates took place over the role the central government would have in the United States after it became clear the Articles of Confederation were too weak to continue. These debates helped define the role of the government in terms of policy, institutions, political parties, and citizens’ rights.

Learning Objective

The Learning Objective for this topic is to explain the differing ideological positions on the structure and function of the federal government. These differences of opinion led to the formation of a group that supported a strong Central Government (Federalists) and a group that supported a weaker Central Government (Anti-Federalists). The key points are: 

Large States vs. Small States — Large states wanted more representation in the new government based on population and a Bicameral Legislature (Virginia Plan). Smaller states preferred a Unicameral Legislature in which each state had one vote (New Jersey Plan). These differences were resolved by the Great Compromise.

Counting Population — There was a debate between the Northern and Southern States counting the population because a significant portion of the South was made up of enslaved Africans and their descendants. This issue was resolved by the Three-Fifths Compromise.

Slavery — Although the word “slavery” was not found in the Constitution, it was a point of convention. While the Three-Fifths Compromise resolved the population issue, the delegates were still faced with disagreements over participation in the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Fugitive Slaves. These issues were resolved by the Slave Trade Compromise and the Fugitive Slave Clause.

Regulating Trade — The delegates debated tariffs on imports and the regulation of trade between the States. The Commerce Compromise resolved these issues.

Election of the Chief Executive — Although there were multiple debates over the inclusion of a Chief Executive, the debate over the election of the Chief Executive led to the creation of the Electoral College.

Individual Rights — One of the most significant debates that took place during the Convention and continued during the State Conventions was the fact that the Constitution did not include a Bill of Rights. Eventually, a compromise was reached that led to the inclusion of a Bill of Rights, which was done through the Amendment Process.

Historical Developments

The 55 delegates who attended the Convention worked through a series of complex, sometimes controversial, issues in order to craft America’s new system of government. They collaborated, negotiated, and ultimately agreed to compromises that set the foundation.

The Great Compromise solved the dispute between a one-house and two-house legislature. It set up two houses of the legislature, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate was based on equal representation, and the House was based on population. It is also known as the Connecticut Compromise because it was presented by Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth who were both from Connecticut.

The Three-Fifths Compromise provided a “solution” for counting enslaved people as part of the population. This allowed the Southern States, where the practice was more prevalent, to include these people in the population count, which determined the number of members each Slave State would have in the House of Representatives.

The Commerce Compromise resolved the issue of imposing tariffs on imports and exports and regulating commerce between the States. The compromise applied tariffs to imports, but not exports, and gave the National Government the ability to regulate trade between the States. It also required all legislation dealing with commerce to be passed by a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate.

The Electoral College was created as an alternative to electing the Chief Executive instead of the direct popular vote of the people. Many of the delegates had concerns that direct election of the Chief Executive would lead to “mob rule.” It balanced the interests of Large States and Small States by ensuring a fairer election process. The system gave Large States an advantage in the initial round of popular voting, while small states gained a larger voice if no candidate secured a majority of Electoral Votes. In the latter case, the election was determined by the House of Representatives.

The Convention dealt with the practice of slavery by agreeing to the Slave Trade Compromise. South Carolina and Georgia relied heavily on their enslaved workers and opposed banning participation in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The compromise allowed the Slave Trade to continue for another 20 years and required the Free States to deport runaway slaves back to the southern states. In March 1807, President Thomas Jefferson signed a bill into law that abolished the slave trade, effective January 1, 1808.

Two major factions developed during the Convention. The Federalists supported the ratification of the Constitution and a strong National Government, while the Anti-Federalists opposed both. Instead of requiring unanimous approval from all 13 States (per the Articles of Confederation), the Convention stipulated that ratification by nine States through special State Ratifying Conventions would be enough for the Constitution to become the supreme law of the land in those States. In doing this, the Convention appealed directly to the people, who had the opportunity to vote on the Constitution through their State Conventions.

Federalists like John Jay, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison wrote the “Federalist Papers” in support of ratification. However, the lack of a Bill of Rights was a concern for many, including the revolutionary leaders from Massachusetts, like Samuel Adams .

Massachusetts agreed to ratify the Constitution when Federalists agreed to add a Bill of Rights. This agreement is known as the “Massachusetts Compromise.”

Review Video

This video from Heimler’s History provides an excellent overview of APUSH 3.8. You can also check out our APUSH Guide , which provides a look at all Units and Topics in the APUSH Curriculum.

Vocabulary and Notes

The following terms and definitions relate to the Key Concepts for Unit 3 and are broken into sections by APUSH Themes. Within the explanations of APUSH 3.8, Terms are links to content on American History Central that should provide a more comprehensive understanding of each topic. Terms and definitions are organized according to the APUSH Themes:

• American and National Identity
• Work, Exchange, and Technology

Migration and Settlement

• Politics and Power
• America in the World

Geography and the Environment

Culture and society, american and national identity — events, benjamin franklin.

Benjamin Franklin was a Founding Father , member of the Continental Congress, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and signer of the United States Constitution. Arguably the most accomplished individual in American history, he was also a successful printer, publisher, scientist, inventor, diplomat, civic leader, statesman, and philosopher, and helped negotiate French support during the American Revolutionary War. Franklin, who was 81 during the Convention, brought experience to the proceedings but sometimes struggled with being discreet. To preserve secrecy, chaperones were appointed to accompany him to social gatherings.

Alexander Hamilton

Alexander Hamilton was a Founding Father of our nation and the first Secretary of the Treasury. He led calls for the Philadelphia Convention and co-authored the Federalist Papers. During the Convention, Hamilton advocated for a strong central government. During the New York Constitutional Convention, Hamilton delivered a famous speech in support of ratification .

John Jay was a Founding Father and the First Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Jay represented New York in the Continental Congress and was an author of the Federalist Papers. He wrote the Constitution of New York and served as Governor from 1795-1801.

James Madison

James Madison was the fourth President of the United States and a principal author of The Federalist Papers. Madison is considered by some to be the “Father of the Constitution.”

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson was a Founding Father and the third President of the United States. He wrote the Declaration of Independence and founded the University of Virginia. He also served as Governor of Virginia, Virginia Congressman, Minister to France, Secretary of State under George Washington, and Vice President under John Adams. Jefferson did not attend the Convention but referred to the quality of the delegates as exceptionally high, describing them as “demigods.”

George Washington

George Washington led the Continental Army to victory over the British in the Revolutionary War. He then served two terms as the first President of the United States under the Constitution. He was unanimously chosen to preside over the Convention.

Pennsylvania Mutiny

The Pennsylvania Mutiny took place on June 17, 1783. Around 400 soldiers from the Continental Army barricaded the members of Congress inside Independence Hall. The soldiers were upset because Congress failed to pay them for their service in the war. Alexander Hamilton negotiated with the soldiers, who agreed to allow the members to leave Independence Hall. The members of Congress left Philadelphia on June 22.

Mount Vernon Conference

The Mount Vernon Conference was held in 1785 at Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate in Virginia. Delegates from Maryland and Virginia sought to resolve navigation and trade disputes over the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. The successful resolution of these issues set a precedent for addressing interstate conflicts and encouraged further efforts toward national cooperation.

Mount Vernon Compact

The Mount Vernon Compact, also known as the Compact of 1785, was the agreement reached between Maryland and Virginia during the Mount Vernon Conference. It established guidelines for the shared use of the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. It was a significant step toward interstate collaboration.

Annapolis Convention

The Annapolis Convention, held in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1786, discussed trade and economic issues among the states. Although only five states sent delegates, the convention recommended a broader meeting to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. This recommendation ultimately led to the Philadelphia Convention of 1787, where the U.S. Constitution was drafted.

Shays’ Rebellion

Shays’ Rebellion was an insurrection in Massachusetts that showed the weakness of the national government under the Articles of Confederation and helped lead to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. It is sometimes called the “Last Battle of the American Revolution.”

Haldimand Affair

The Haldimand Affair refers to a conspiracy during the American Revolutionary War in which British Governor Frederick Haldimand of Quebec allegedly engaged in secret negotiations with the leaders of Vermont, including Ethan Allen, to have the state rejoin the British Empire. The negotiations fell apart when the British surrendered at Yorktown, and Vermont eventually ratified the U.S. Constitution (January 1791) and was accepted into the Union as the 14th State on March 4, 1791.

Middle Passage

The Middle Passage was a route in the Triangular Trade System that started in Northwest Africa, crossed the Atlantic Ocean, and ended in the Americas. The Middle Passage is most well-known for its use in the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the terrible suffering it imposed on imprisoned Africans who were sold into slavery.

Transatlantic Slave Trade

The Transatlantic Slave Trade was a business in which the commodity was African men, women, and children. They were captured in Africa, transported across the Atlantic Ocean over the “Middle Passage,” and forced to work in the Americas. It was also part of the Triangular Trade System and the Mercantile System.

Politics and Power — Process

State ratifying conventions.

State Ratifying Conventions were special assemblies convened in each of the Original 13 American states between 1787 and 1790 to debate and vote on the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. These Conventions were established to ensure that the decision to ratify the Constitution would come from representatives of the people rather than state legislatures. This process was driven by the debate between Federalists and Anti-Federalists.

Politics and Power — Rights and Freedoms

Natural rights.

Natural Rights are fundamental rights that all individuals possess by virtue of being human, regardless of laws or government. Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke argued that Natural Rights include life, liberty, and property. These rights are seen as inherent and inalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away by the government. The concept of Natural Rights influenced the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing that government exists to protect these rights.

Freedom of Assembly

Freedom of Assembly is the right of individuals to gather peacefully for meetings, protests, or other forms of collective expression. Protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution; it allows people to come together to advocate for causes, express their opinions, and engage in political or social activities without fear of government interference, as long as the assembly remains peaceful.

Freedom of Religion

Freedom of Religion is the right of individuals to practice, change, or not practice a religion according to their beliefs without government interference. It is protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits the establishment of a state religion — known as the Establishment Clause — and guarantees the free exercise of religion, ensuring religious diversity and individual choice in matters of faith.

Freedom of Speech

Freedom of speech is the right to express one’s opinions, ideas, and beliefs without government censorship or restraint. It is protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and serves as a cornerstone of democratic society. While this right is broad, it does have some limitations, such as prohibitions on incitement to violence or defamation.

Probable Cause

Probable cause refers to the legal standard in U.S. law that requires law enforcement or government officials to have a reasonable basis or sufficient evidence to believe that a crime has been committed before conducting a search, making an arrest, or obtaining a warrant. It is a safeguard against arbitrary police actions and is protected under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, ensuring citizens’ rights to privacy and protection from unreasonable searches and seizures.

Protection from Double Jeopardy

Double Jeopardy is a constitutional protection under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that prevents an individual from being tried twice for the same offense in the same jurisdiction after acquittal or conviction. It ensures fairness in the legal system by prohibiting repeated prosecutions for the same crime, preventing government overreach, and protecting individuals from legal harassment.

Protection from Seizure of Property

Seizure of Property refers to the act of law enforcement or government authorities taking possession of a person’s possessions, usually as part of a legal process. Under the Fourth Amendment, the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable seizures. It requires seizure to be based on probable cause and typically requires a warrant issued by a judge. Property can be seized during criminal investigations, civil forfeiture, or through Eminent Domain, but legal protections ensure seizures must be lawful.

Right to Bear Arms

The Right to Bear Arms is the individual right to possess and carry weapons, protected under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Originally intended to ensure that citizens could form militias for defense, this right has been interpreted and debated in modern times as applying to personal self-defense and the ownership of firearms.

Separation of Church and State

Separation of Church and State is the principle that government and religious institutions should operate independently from each other, ensuring that no religion is given preferential treatment by the government. This is enshrined in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits the establishment of a national religion and protects religious freedom.

Trial by Jury

Trial by Jury is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It allows individuals accused of a crime to have their case heard and decided by an impartial jury of their peers. It ensures ordinary citizens play a role in determining guilt or innocence, providing a check on government power.

Fair and Speedy Trial

The right to a Fair and Speedy Trial is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It ensures that people accused of crimes are brought to trial without unnecessary delays, preventing prolonged detention without resolution. A “fair” trial means the accused has the right to Trial by Jury legal representation and the ability to confront witnesses and present a defense. A “speedy” trial ensures justice is administered in a timely manner, safeguarding against potential abuses such as indefinite imprisonment or unfair delays in legal proceedings.

Politics and Power — Influences

Suffolk resolves.

The Suffolk Resolves were written by Joseph Warren in protest of the Intolerable Acts and military preparations taken by Governor Thomas Gage after the Powder Alarm. In its first official act, the First Continental Congress endorsed the Resolves and ordered colonial newspapers to print them.

Continental Association

The Continental Association was an organization created by the First Continental Congress to enforce the Articles of Association — a trade boycott against British merchants — unless Britain repealed the Coercive Acts.

Lee Resolution

On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced the Lee Resolution to Congress. The resolution called for the 13 Colonies to declare independence and dissolve their connection with Great Britain, take measures to form foreign alliances, and prepare a plan for their unification. On June 11, Congress responded by forming three committees, including the Committee of Thirteen, which was tasked with creating a plan for unification.

Model Treaty

The Model Treaty, drafted by the Continental Congress in 1776, was a guideline for American diplomats negotiating alliances and trade agreements during the American Revolution. It emphasized the establishment of commercial partnerships without political or military entanglements, focusing on free trade and mutual benefit between nations. The Model Treaty reflected Enlightenment ideals of peaceful commerce and sovereignty and aimed to secure economic alliances, particularly with France. It laid the foundation for the 1778 Treaty of Amity and Commerce with France.

Declaration of Independence

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson and edited by luminaries such as Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

Enacted by the Confederation Congress on July 13, 1787, the Northwest Ordinance established a plan for governing the Northwest Territory. Modified several times, the document later served as a blueprint for adding new states to the Union as the United States expanded westward.  

Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation was America’s first constitution. It was in effect from March 1, 1781, to March 4, 1789, when it was replaced by the United States Constitution.

Massachusetts Constitution

Adopted in 1780, the Massachusetts Constitution is the oldest functioning written Constitution in the world. Drafted primarily by John Adams, it served as a model for the U.S. Constitution. The document established a government with a Separation of Powers, including an Executive (governor), a Bicameral Legislature, and an independent Judiciary. It also included a Declaration of Rights, ensuring basic liberties such as Freedom of Speech and Religion. It also served as a model for other State Constitutions.

Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom

Drafted by Thomas Jefferson and passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 1786, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom established religious liberty and the Separation of Church and state in Virginia. The statute declared that no individual should be forced to support or participate in any religious activity and that all citizens have the right to practice religion freely. This statute influenced the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and became a foundational principle of Freedom of Religion.

Federalist Papers

The Federalist Papers are a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay between 1787 and 1788 to support the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Published under the pseudonym “Publius,” they argued for a strong central government to replace the weak Articles of Confederation and explained how the proposed Constitution would preserve liberty while ensuring effective governance.

Politics and Power — Foundations of American Government

Democratic principles.

Democratic Principles are based on rule by the people, ensuring that citizens have a voice in the government. These principles include majority rule, free and fair elections, political equality, and the protection of individual rights and liberties. In a Democracy, power is derived directly from the people, who participate in decision-making through voting and other forms of civic engagement. Democratic Ideals shaped the development and structure of American political institutions.

Direct Democracy

Direct Democracy is a system of government in which citizens directly participate in decision-making and lawmaking rather than electing representatives to do so on their behalf. In direct democracies, individuals vote on specific policies and laws rather than on representatives who make those decisions.

Representative Democracy

Representative Democracy is a system of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf rather than participating directly in the decision-making process. This form of Democracy ensures that the government reflects the will of the people while allowing for efficient governance in larger populations. Representatives are held accountable to the electorate through regular elections. Representative Democracy, as established in the United States, is based on the principles of Popular Sovereignty, political equality, and the protection of individual rights.

Republicanism

In simple terms, Republicanism is an ideology that focuses on fair, balanced government, with an emphasis on honesty and virtue. A Republican government is driven by the will of the people instead of a monarch, dictator, elites, or the upper class. These values are found in ancient Greece and Rome and were revived during the Renaissance and influenced the Reformation and the Enlightenment. In England, it appealed to politicians who were way of the excessive power of the monarchy. During the American Revolution, Thomas Paine made the argument for American independence, based on Republicanism, in his pamphlet “Common Sense.”

Popular Sovereignty

Popular Sovereignty is the principle that a government’s authority is created and sustained by the people’s consent. It asserts that the ultimate source of governmental power resides with the people, who can express their will through democratic processes such as elections.

Separation of Powers

Separation of Powers is a foundational principle in which the government’s power is divided among distinct branches (Legislative, Executive, and Judicial), each with specific responsibilities. This system is designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful by allowing Checks and Balances.

Social Contract

The Social Contract is a political theory that originated during the Enlightenment and was developed by philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. It proposes that individuals willingly agree to form a society and government, surrendering certain freedoms in exchange for protection and the preservation of their natural rights. In Locke’s view, governments are formed to protect life, liberty, and property, and if they fail to do so, citizens have the right to revolt. Rousseau emphasized the collective “general will,” where individuals work toward the common good.

Politics and Power — Branches of Government

Executive branch.

The Executive Branch is responsible for enforcing and implementing government laws. In the United States, it is headed by the President, who serves as both the head of state and the Commander-in-Chief of the military. The President is supported by the Vice President, Cabinet, and federal agencies, all of which help administer government policies and national affairs.

Judicial Branch

The Judicial Branch interprets and applies the law, ensuring that legislation is in accordance with the Constitution. In the United States, this branch is led by the Supreme Court, which has the power to review laws and executive actions for constitutionality. The Judicial Branch also includes lower Federal Courts that handle various legal disputes and issues of federal law.

Legislative Branch

The Legislative Branch is responsible for making and passing laws. In the United States, this branch is composed of Congress, which is divided into two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Congress has the authority to draft legislation, levy taxes, declare war, and oversee the executive and judicial branches through its powers of checks and balances.

Politics and Power — Building Blocks of Government

Annual elections.

Annual Elections are a system in which government officials, such as legislators, are elected by the people every year. Early American colonists favored this frequent electoral cycle to ensure greater accountability and representation of the public’s interests.

Bicameral Legislature

A Bicameral Legislature is a lawmaking body composed of two separate chambers or houses. In the United States, Congress is bicameral, consisting of the Senate (upper house) and the House of Representatives (lower house), allowing for Checks and Balances within the legislative process.

Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, adopted in 1791. These amendments protect fundamental rights and liberties, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as the right to a fair trial and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Checks and Balances

Checks and Balances is a foundational principle in Democratic governance, particularly in the United States, that ensures the three branches of government — Executive, Legislative, and Judicial — maintain separate powers while providing mechanisms for each branch to limit or “check” the powers of the others. This system prevents any one branch from gaining too much authority. For example, Congress can pass laws, but the President can veto them, while the Judiciary can review the constitutionality of laws, ensuring that power is balanced across the branches.

Chief Executive

The Chief Executive is the head of the Executive Branch of government, responsible for enforcing laws and overseeing the administration of government policies. In the United States, the President is the chief executive, holding powers such as vetoing legislation, appointing federal officials, and commanding the military.

Lower Legislative House

The Lower Legislative House is one of the chambers in a Bicameral Legislature. In the United States, the House of Representatives is the Lower House, responsible for initiating revenue bills and more directly reflecting the population’s interests. Members are elected based on population size.

Unicameral Legislature

A Unicameral Legislature is a lawmaking body with a single legislative chamber or house. This system is simpler than a Bicameral Legislature, as all legislative authority is concentrated in one body. Nebraska is the only U.S. state with a Unicameral Legislature.

Upper Legislative House

The Upper Legislative House is one of the two chambers in a Bicameral Legislature. In the United States, the Upper House is the Senate. Senators serve longer terms (six years) compared to members of the Lower House, and each state is represented equally in the Senate, with two senators per state, regardless of population size. The Senate holds special powers, such as approving treaties and confirming presidential appointments, and plays a crucial role in balancing representation between smaller and larger states.

America in the World — Influences

Renaissance.

The Renaissance was a cultural, intellectual, and artistic movement that started in Italy in the 14th Century and spread throughout Europe, lasting until the 17th Century. It was characterized by a revival of interest in the classical art, literature, and learning of ancient Greece and Rome. It led to significant developments in art, architecture, science, and philosophy, led by notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli.

Reformation

The Reformation was a religious movement that took place in the 16th Century and sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church. It started in 1517 when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, and led to a break in the Church and the establishment of Protestantism. Prominent leaders like John Calvin and Huldrych Zwingli contributed to the development of a new theology that spread across Europe and ignited Wars of Religion between Catholic and Protestant nations.

Enlightenment

The Enlightenment was an intellectual movement during the 17th and 18th Centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and scientific inquiry over traditional authority and beliefs. Philosophers like as John Locke, Voltaire, and Immanuel Kant promoted ideas like Natural Rights, liberty, and the Social Contract, which influenced political revolutions and the development of democratic governments. The Enlightenment had a profound impact on modern philosophy, science, and politics and influenced the American Revolution and the French Revolution.

Scientific Revolution

The Scientific Revolution occurred from the 16th to the 18th Century and led to a significant change in European thinking. The movement focused on reason, scientific inquiry, and experimentation to challenge the traditional views of the world. Pioneers like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, and Isaac Newton made groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy, physics, and mathematics. The revolution led to the development of the Scientific Method and laid the foundation for modern science.

Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution, which started in Britain in the late 18th Century and spread throughout Europe and North America, led to economic and technological change as nations transitioned from agriculture to industrialized production. Innovations like as the steam engine, mechanized textile production, and advances in metallurgy transformed industries and transportation. This movement reshaped societies, leading to urbanization, shifts in labor systems, and the rise of capitalism. However, it also created new social and environmental challenges.

French Revolution

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was inspired by the Enlightenment and the success of the American Revolution. It led to significant changes in France that affected its alliance with the United States. Disagreements in America over support for the French Revolution led to the development of political parties and policies that shaped the course of American history.

Crown Lands

Crown Lands refer to territories owned and controlled by the British Crown in Colonial America. They were often used for various governmental purposes, including revenue generation through taxation, leasing, and granting land to settlers or colonial governments. The entire region west of the Allegheny Mountains was set aside for Native American Indians by the Proclamation of 1763. After the American Revolution, Crown Lands were redistributed by the newly independent States or the Federal Government.

Western Lands

Western Lands were the territories west of the Appalachian Mountains, acquired by the United States following the Treaty of Paris in 1783. These lands became a source of contention among the States and the Federal Government regarding ownership, settlement, and governance. The Western Land Ordinances, including the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, established guidelines for the settlement and eventual statehood of these territories, promoting westward expansion and land distribution.

Northwest Territory

Most of the Western Lands were organized into the Northwest Territory. Following the American Revolutionary War, the Confederation Congress organized the territory through the Ordinance of 1784 , the Land Ordinance of 1785 , and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 . The Northwest Ordinance took the extraordinary steps of creating a Bill of Rights for the Northwest Territory and prohibiting slavery in the region.

Republican Motherhood

Republican Motherhood was coined by historian Linda K. Gerber in an article she wrote in 1976 titled “The Republican Mother: Women and the Enlightenment – An American Perspective.” It refers to an ideology that emerged after the American Revolution, emphasizing the role of women in nurturing the values of Republicanism in their children. It held that women, as mothers, had a vital role in raising virtuous, educated, and civic-minded citizens who could contribute to the new republic. While women were not given direct political rights, such as voting, this concept elevated their status in society by recognizing their importance in shaping the future of the nation through family life and education. Republican Motherhood laid the foundation for later movements advocating for women’s rights and education.

Culture and Society — Slavery

Abolition movement.

The Abolition Movement was a social and political campaign aimed at ending slavery and the Slave Trade, particularly in the United States and Britain, during the 18th and 19th Centuries. In the U.S., abolitionists like Frederick Douglass , Harriet Tubman , and William Lloyd Garrison fought to end the institution of slavery, which culminated in the Civil War and the passage of the 13th Amendment in 1865, abolishing slavery. The movement was driven by moral, religious, and political arguments against slavery, and it played an important role in advancing civil rights and equality in the U.S.

Black Codes and Slave Laws

Black Codes and Slave Laws existed in the colonies and territories before the establishment of the United States. These continued to be enforced even after the United States gained independence. In 1804, Ohio became the first state legislature to enact laws that restricted the rights and freedoms of blacks. Some of these laws remained in effect until 1886 — more than 20 years after the Civil War.

Fugitive Slave Laws

The Fugitive Slave Laws were a series of laws enacted in the United States to address the issue of escaped slaves. The first Fugitive Slave Act (1793) allowed slaveowners to capture escaped slaves across state lines and required that states cooperate in their return. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 , part of the Compromise of 1850 , strengthened the law by requiring the Free States to assist in the capture and return of runaway slaves. It also imposed penalties on those who aided fugitives. The harshness of the 1850 law intensified the Sectional Divide over slavery and fueled the Abolitionist Movement, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the Civil War.

Pennsylvania Abolition Society

Pennsylvania Abolition Society, also known as the “Philadelphia Society for the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage,” was founded in 1775 in Philadelphia and was the first American organization dedicated to the abolition of slavery. Under the leadership of people such as Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin Rush the Society worked to end slavery in Pennsylvania gradually. It played a role in the early Abolition Movement, contributing to Pennsylvania’s 1780 Gradual Abolition Act, one of the first legislative measures to start the process of ending slavery in the U.S.

Tacit Approval of Slavery

Tacit Approval of Slavery refers to the implicit allowance of the institution of slavery by individuals, governments, or societies without explicitly saying so. In the early United States, this was reflected in the Constitution, which included the Three-Fifths Compromise and the Fugitive Slave Clause. Many Northern States, while not reliant on slavery, often tolerated it due to economic ties and a desire to maintain the Union.

Unit 3 Topics and Key Concepts

Key concepts.

3.1 — ​British attempts to assert tighter control over its North American colonies and the colonial resolve to pursue self-government led to a colonial independence movement and the Revolutionary War.

3.2 — The American Revolution’s democratic and republican ideas inspired new experiments with different forms of government.

3.3 — Migration within North America and competition over resources, boundaries, and trade intensified conflicts among peoples and nations.

• 3.1 — Contextualizing Period 3 
• 3.2 — The Seven Years’ War (The French and Indian War)  
• 3.3 — Taxation Without Representation  
• 3.4 — Philosophical Foundations of the American Revolution  
• 3.5 — The American Revolution  
• 3.6 — The Influence of Revolutionary Ideals  
• 3.7 — The Articles of Confederation  
• 3.8 — The Constitutional Convention and Debates over Ratification 
• 3.9 — The Constitution  
• 3.10 — Shaping a New Republic  
• 3.11 — Developing an American Identity  
• 3.12 — Movement in the Early Republic
• 3.13 — Continuity and Change in Period 3
• Written by Randal Rust

Home — Essay Samples — Science — Biochemistry — Urging Ratification of the Constitution: The Federalist Papers

Urging Ratification of The Constitution: The Federalist Papers

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Published: Sep 7, 2023

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Introduction, the arguments of the federalist papers, strong central government, protection of individual rights, need for a unified nation, historical context and impact.

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Ratification of the Constitution, Essay Example

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What were the major arguments used by each side (the supporters and opponents) in the debates over the ratification of the constitution?

James Madison realized the importance of the ratification of the Constitution and knew that the ratification would forever shape the republican government in the United States. The Federalists were the supporters of the Constitution who stated that the Constitution was needed to provide a more organized manner for a stronger centralized government. The Anti-federalists felt that the Constitution was too formal and legalized and would eventually diminish the power of each individual state to provide for the citizens. Further they argued that a new nationalized government would strip the people of their rights to make decisions with regards to civil liberties and diminish the order and unity that they had been striving to develop thus far.

Some influential members of the Federalist side were “James Madison, Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, writing under the pseudonym Publius, wrote dozens of articles supporting the Constitution which are now collectively referred to as The Federalist Papers . Articles written in response by George Mason, Elbridge Gerry and Patrick Henry are, appropriately, known as the Anti-Federalist Papers.” (“Ratification”).

Without a Constitution in force there was a lack of common currency for exchange, defence policy disputes and common trade disputes amongst nations. The main reason the anti-federalist opposed the formation of the Constitution is that they feared a strong enough policy of checks and balances could be supplied and sustained to keep the central government in check to prevent them from totalitarian reign. The anti-federalist firmly believed that in order to preserve liberty and freedom amongst a nation the people must keep the government very small and as close to their reach as possible. They felt that the Supremacy Clause and the Necessary and Proper Clause gave rise to government supremacy and a lack of protection for the rights of the people.  There seemed to be no limits on supremacy and power of the government. The anti-federalist particularly argued that the national constitution should list the rights of the people since the state constitution did such that. Through the Madison Compromise it was asserted that the amendments would give rise to the Bill of Rights and this is what won the support of many Anti-Federalists. “Delaware, one of the smaller states, was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, followed by Pennsylvania on December 12th of the same year.” (“Ratification”).

A very unique identity was created with the development and ratification of the United States Constitution. The government was given certain powers of which they are bound to exercise, the people were given standards by which the government has to follow and the police were given certain discretionary powers they can exercise within limits. In other countries such as the United Kingdom there is no true Constitution. There is a transparent code of Constitutional laws by which the Prime Minister and Queen operates which is not set in stone but which operates under codes and conventions. Some historians and politicians feel this sort of non-entrenched Constitution works better for the people because the laws can always be challenged if the people feel their rights are being infringed. However if a Constitution is entrenched as in the United States, it takes a two-thirds vote by Congress to overturn a law.

Just as a handful of men connected the debate and gave rise to supremacy to form the most significant documents in the United States, the people of today can stand force to gain the power back that the government has taken away from us. I agree with the Anti-Federalists point of view. The government has become too powerful. There is a system of checks and balances in the legislative, judicial and executive however each of these three branches are given ‘discretionary powers’ to act and sometimes with these powers come abuse. It is at this time that the people have no control over the abuses of the government and the judiciary. Perhaps the people should not have fought so hard for a clearly structured Constitution or configured a document with rights that were geared to protect the inalienable rights of the citizens by eliminating the ‘discretionary’ powers of the government and the police.

Ratification (2008) Ratification Retrieved November 8, 2009 from, http://www.thisnation.com/textbook/constitution-ratify.html

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• US Constitution of 1787: Formation and Ratification Words: 842
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• The Constitution’s Creation: Analyzing Drafting and Ratification Challenges Words: 964

The Ratification of the Constitution

Introduction.

The Constitution of 1787-1788 is known for having created one of the greatest controversies in the history of the United States. The proponents of the Constitution, who believed in the necessity of strengthening the republic, were referred to as Federalists, whereas those who were against the ratification and opted for a localized government were called Anti-Federalists. Although both parties were primarily concerned with the preservation of the obtained liberty, the paths they chose for pursuing this goal were drastically different. Today, a lot of scholars claim that the ratification of the Constitution was inevitable for further development of the nation. However, a deeper understanding is required to see whose arguments were more grounded in logic and ideology.

How Federalists and Anti-Federalists Planned to Organize the Federal Government

The Federalists considered that the formation of a unified nation by establishing a strong state government was the major goal of the United States. This view challenged the previously existing belief that the republic could be effective as a form of government only if it was localized. Although it is clear that the federalists wanted to extend the sphere of the republic while preserving the sovereignty of the states, their perception of democracy and partisanship remains rather vague. A lot of scholars argue that the Federalists did not want the government to be partisan. However, it is quite evident from Federalist No. 10 that Madison believed that representative republic, unlike democracy, “opens a different prospect, and promises the cure for which we are seeking” (Madison, 1787, para. 14). Although, he still believed that democracy may come in a “happy combination” with the republic (Madison, 1787, para. 19). The same views were shared by others.

Unlike Federalists, Anti-Federalists were far from being unified and well-organized. The only thing that united them was their protest against ratifying the Constitution and the expansion of the government power that would limit the authority of each state. In Brutus No. 1, they claimed that “a free republic cannot succeed over a country of such immense extent, containing such several inhabitants, and these increasing in such rapid progression” (“To the citizens of the state of New-York,” 1787, para. 14). To prove this point, they analyzed several republics and concluded that “history furnishes no example of a free republic, anything like the extent of the United States” (“To the citizens of the state of New-York,” 1787, para. 15). That is why, according to Anti-Federalists, only a confederacy to separate states was capable of safeguarding national liberty and people.

Personal Position

Even though Federalists had numerous weak points in their arguments, I would still support their party, mostly because they stimulated the market economy. They made it possible for people to sell and purchase goods in stores and export cotton, which created perfect conditions for businesses. Furthermore, I believe that Federalists managed to find a perfect balance between the power and limitations imposed by the government. The Constitution provided the nation with a more representative form of government (unlike the one-house legislature that existed at that time). Finally, splitting power into three branches made it possible to divide authorities and closely control each branch.

Although the present-day Constitution seems to be indispensable to the US government, the ratification of its first version was a complex and controversial procedure. The analysis of the two parties under discussion demonstrated that they had entirely different opinions on the distribution of powers between the national government and the states. Even though the Federalist party won the game, there are still a lot of points that remain debatable in this argument and require more profound investigation to be understood.

Madison, J. (1787). The utility of the Union as a safeguard against domestic faction and insurrection (continued). Web.

To the citizens of the state of New-York. (1787). Web.

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Example Of Ratification Essay

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Following the framing of the constitution and the conclusion of the constitutional convention, political debate quickly developed as the ratification process began. As state representatives returned to their states, the press had already began shaping public opinion with the dispersion of the Federalist and Anti-Federalist papers. Federalists such as Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, and Anti-Federalists such as George Mason, Thomas Paine and George Clinton wrote with the intention of influencing the opinions of the American populace and the state legislatures charged with ratifying the constitution. These factions created the first instance of political parties, and the compromise between the two during the debate of ratification had a great influence on the American constitution. A primary …show more content…

The Anti-Federalists viewed the constitution as an encompassing set of guidelines for the United States ’ future government. They believed the document was not meant to be simply a revision or amendment to the Articles of confederation. As such, DeWitt argued that any changes the colonists already felt they needed must be included at the induction of the document. Due to the nature of the people, differences of interests, and mannerisms or local prejudice would stand in the way of any alteration to be made. Aggrandized with the strict majority requirements to pass such an amendment, it was believed that use of drastic armed force would be necessary to finalize any such change. DeWitt and the Anti-Federalists further believed that if amendments were to be forced through into the constitution it would eliminate the common man’s feeling of amity and would limit the progress of change. As the party looked to the future, they concluded that if the people of the country were to enter into a compact such as the constitution provided, then they must give

Why Is The Massachusetts Farmers Opposed To The Constitution Dbq

According to my point of view the anti-federalists played upon these sentiments in the ratification tradition in Massachusetts. By this point, five of the states had sanctioned the Constitution without any difficulty, however the Massachusetts tradition was significantly all the more sharp and hostile. At last, after long open

Dbq Ratification

From 1787-1790 the ratification of the American Constitution became fight between two different political methods of judgment. America 's best political personalities accumulated in Philadelphia to discuss shared opinion in a legislative structure. The Constitution itself did not say political groups, and it was expected that none was going to emerge. Be that as it may, this was soon demonstrated wrong when the level headed discussions between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists in 1787 and 1788 blend into a two gathering framework. This soon prompted a changeless component in American approaches.

Alexander Hamilton's Contribution Of The Preamble To The Constitution

Lectures Lecture 14 “Questions to Consider #1”: Why did the Anti Federalists object so strongly to the Preamble to the Constitution? The Anti-Federalists objected so strongly to Preamble to the Constitution due to the fact the Preamble establishes powers for the three branches of government, states’ relations, mode of amendment, debts, national supremacy, oath of office, and amendment ratification. This group felts as though when the federalists wanting to create a strong central government would not be strong enough if the Preamble was not put into place. Lecture 14 states, “Anti-federalists suspicious of central power fought the new Constitution tenaciously…..

Dbq Federalist 10

When talk of the Constitution arises it is understandable that colonists were weary of a government that would have that much power after they worked so hard to break away from Great Britain. The Federalists firmly believed that the Constitution would strengthen the Federal union and not give too much power to the central

John Patrick Coby Ratification Debate

The ratification debate of 1788 pitted Federalists against Antifederalists over adoption of the proposed Constitution. Through the Eyes of John Patrick Coby "Raising the Eleventh Pillar: This essay will examine the key differences between the Federalist and Antifederalist positions in regard to the 1788 ratification debate and their positions on key issues debated. Federalists backed the proposed Constitution from Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay. They envisioned a powerful central government which could correct the weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation. Federalist arguments argued for a united nation capable of regulating commerce, maintaining national defense, and ensuring economic prosperity.

Compare And Contrast The Alien And Sedition Acts Of 1977 Dbq

There were two sides to the Great Debate: the Federalist who wanted to ratify the Constitution and the Anti-Federalist who opposed the ratification of the Constitution. Although the Constitution was eventually ratified and made effective in 1789 it did not end the debate between these two parties. The Anti-Federalist party was short-lived following the founding of the new government. However, it served as the precursor of the Jeffersonian Republican party which is also known as the Democratic-Republican Party. In the next quarter century, political tension would be between the deep-rooted Federalists and the emerging Jeffersonian Republicans.

Explain What Compromises Were Made At The Constitutional Convention

The Federalists of the convention were in favor of the ratification of the Constitution. They believed that the national government must be strong in order to function and to control uncooperative states, which could protect the rights of the people. They also believed that the Constitution and state government protected individual freedoms. On the other hand, the Anti-Federalists opposed a strong central government, particularly a standing army. They believed it threatened state power along with the rights of the common people.

Constitutional Convention Versus The Great Compromise

The Constitution was to be ratified by a special ratifying convention instead of the state legislature. The people fought hard for ratification of the Constitution for a long time. Those who supported the ratification were called Federalists, and those who opposed it were called Anti-Federalists. The Federalists went against the Articles of Confederation, whereas the Anti-Federalists supported a House of Representative which consisted of substantive power. Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, whom are all Federalists, wrote The Federalist Papers - a series of essays.

The Constitution's Ratification Process

1. The Constitution’s ratification process included arguments for and against ratification by Federalists and Anti-Federalists, respectively. Describe and evaluate the arguments expressed by both of these groups. The arguments the Federalists used in support of the ratification of the Constitution include a decrease in strength and authority of the federal government under the currently designated Articles of Confederation (Bardes, Shelly, Schimdt, 2015, pp.

The Argument Against The Anti-Federalists

The Federalists wanted a strong central government. The Anti- Federalists claims Constitution gives the central government too much power and, and they worried about the new constitution will not give them any rights. That the new system threatened freedom; Also, threatened the sovereignty of the states and personal liberties; failed to protect individual rights. Besides, some of famous peoples such as " Patrick Henry" and artists have came out against the Constitution. Although the anti-Federalists were unsuccessful in stopping the passage of the Constitution, their efforts have been responsible for the creation and implementation of the Bill of

Essay On Ratifying The Constitution

Ratifying the Constitution Ratifying the Constitution has saved our country from being like England and from not falling apart. Before the constitution we had the articles and those weren’t working out at the time and we weren’t able to fight against rebellions and or against other countries when. We could act faster with the Constitution and we had a checks and balance system and also we had a checks and balances system. We could have acted faster with the constitution instead of wanting around for all states to agree on doing something.

Controversies Over The Ratification Of The Constitution

The controversies over the ratification of the Constitution was taxation, too much power to the President, trading, and the lack of Bill of Rights. There were people who agreed to ratify the Constitution the way it is, which were called federalists. Federalists reasoned that Americans should ratify the Constitution because Americans are allowed to ask for additional amendments after they ratify the Constitution. The ability to be able to request additional amendments after supported the Federalist’s point of view because the Anti-federalists may ask for further amendments after which could happen after they ratify the Constitution.

Ratifying The Constitution Persuasive Essay

After convening together yesterday, I finally understood the true importance of my decision and of my votes; they will not only have a major impact on our present generation but on posterity as well. Therefore, I do not make this decision lightly, but given the current trajectory of our states and the future conflicts that might occur if we choose not to change, I strongly believe that ratifying the Constitution would be the best possible solution for our nation. For this reason, I am supporting and voting for John Adams, James Madison, and George Washington. John Adams convinced me that “unity, peace, and religious freedom” will prosper with the introduction of the Constitution; he persuasively argued that this unity will finally relieve the tensions between states. Because I strongly believe in peacemaking and in religious freedom, I am compelled to think that ratifying this new document would help to improve our nation greatly‒both

Difference Between Confederation And Constitution

The faintness of the articles of confederation brought conflict between the two sides in a scenario where the Federalists argued that the ratification of the new constitution would be beneficial to the country while the Anti-Federalists opposed their rivals’ stance ("The Federalist Papers - Congress.gov Resources -", 2018). However, the major issue of the debate concerned the annexation of the Bill of Rights in the constitution. On the one hand, the Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, believed that the inclusion of the Bill of Rights was not necessary since the government and not the people were limited by the constitution ("The Federalist Papers - Congress.gov Resources -", 2018). On the other hand, those opposed to the constitution such as John Hancock argued that failure to include the Bill of Rights in it meant that the government would be stronger, therefore threatening the sovereignty of the individual states ("The Federalist Papers - Congress.gov Resources -", 2018). Anti-Federalists also debated that the system created by the new constitution would threaten the liberties as well as fail to protect the rights of

Ratification Of The Constitution Essay

They felt the Constitution would create a system of federalism, a system in which the national government holds significant power, but the smaller political subdivisions also hold significant power. They felt the country needed a strong central government so that it didn’t fall apart. The Ant-Federalists were on the opposing side, they felt the Constitution granted the government too much power. They also felt there wasn’t enough protection of their right with an absent Bill of Rights. Another concern of the Anti-Federalists mainly came from the lower classes, from their standpoint they thought the wealthy class would be in main control and gain the most benefits from the ratification of this document.

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