Ratification of the
Constitution
Chapter 4 Section 4
Mr. Cales
Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists

Federalists – Alexander Hamilton – Strong
federal government.

Anti-federalists – George Mason –
Weaker federal government and
Constitution needed a section to guarantee
individual rights.
Federalist Qualities




Supported Constitution
Strong Central Government
Liked the “balance of powers” in
Constitution
Created speeches and pamphlets to
support the Constitution (Federalist Papers)
Federalist – Alexander Hamilton
Hmm – Where have I seen that guy?
Anti-Federalist Qualities

Opposed Constitution

Federal government would be too powerful

Lack of individual rights
Anti-Federalist – George Mason
Federalist Papers

Written by John Jay, Alexander Hamiltion,
and James Madison

Papers argued that new Federal
Government would NOT overpower States
rights!
Federalist Papers – Now In Paperback!
Ratification!




EACH state needed to ratify the
Constitution.
Delaware was the 1st state in 1787
Rhode Island was the last in 1790
NY and VA debated over ratification, but
finally jumped on board
1st 10 Amendments = Bill of Rights

Bill of Rights – 1st 10 Amendments added upon
ratification in 1791.

Gave clear example of how to amend (change)
the Constitution to fit the needs of a changing
nation

Flexibility of the Constitution has allowed it to exist
over 200 years.
Bill of Rights