A More Perfect Union

1
A More Perfect Union

• 7.4 Ratifying the Constitution

2
The Constitutional Debate

• The states held special conventions to consider
  the proposed constitution
• Rhode Island was against it from the beginning
  and did not call for a convention

3
The Constitutional Debate

• Federalists
• Versus
• Anti-Federalists

4
Federalists

• Supported the new Constitution
• George Washington and Ben Franklin

5
Federalists

• The Federalist Papers a series of essays written
  by Madison, Hamilton and Jay explaining and
  defending the Constitution

6
Federalists

• Feared uprisings and disorder more than a strong
  central government

7
Federalists

• Believed a strong national government was
  necessary for survival

8
Federalists

• Believed a bill of rights would limit peoples
• rights

9
Anti-Federalists

• Opposed the Constitution
• Thomas Paine That government is best which
  governs least.
• Patrick Henry

10
Anti-Federalists

• Feared the Constitution would take away the
  peoples liberty

11
Anti-Federalists

• Feared the states would lose power to the central
  government

12
Anti-Federalists

• Wanted local government to take care of peoples
  needs
• Generally worked
• as farmers

13
Anti-Federalists

• Wanted a bill of rights without it, federal
  government would become too strong

14
Ratification

• Despite debate, ratification proceeded
• Constitution would include a Bill of Rights
  amendment

15
Ratification

• 1st Delaware
• 9th New Hampshire
• Eventually, all 13 states ratified