Founding Docs: Federalists, Anti-Federalists, and Bill of Rights

Once it was decided that the Articles of Confederation weren't working, a new plan had to be worked out for a new constitution. Two groups formed and began writing letters and articles for and against the new proposed constitution. The Federalists published a series of essays to convince others to (a)   the ratification (approval) of the new constitution. 

Answer explanation

Federalists: Supported the new Constitution

Anti-Federalists: Were against the new Constitution

The Federalists and Anti-Federalists argued over a lot of points. One argument was how much power the federal/central government would have. Which group felt that the federal government should have more power than the state governments?

• Anti-Federalists

• Federalists

• Neither because they both were terrified of a strong federal government

Answer explanation

Task 3 in Block 3 Week 7 has it all wooooohoooo!!

The Anti-Federalists wrote a series of articles that tried to convince people to not support the new constitution. They were concerned that too much power was shifting away from the states and over towards the new federal government. One of their concerns was that a standing army (a permanent army) might:

• overthrow the English king

• destroy their own navy

• join sides with France in a future war

• be used against American citizens

Answer explanation

Listen to my explanation of the correct answer. Did I do a good job? If not - email me and let me know how I can explain it better!

Individual liberties was an extremely important issue during the debates between the Anti-Federalists and the Federalists. The Anti-Federalists, when they read the proposed constitution, felt that it did not go far enough to protect citizens' liberties (like freedom of speech and religion).

What additional document did the Anti-Federalists want added to the end of the constitution to hopefully further protect individual liberties and rights?

• The Bill of Rights

• The Magna Carta

• The Articles of Confederation

• The Northwest Ordinance

Answer explanation

In the end, the Federalists agreed to add ten amendments, or changes, to the Constitution. Known as the Bill of Rights, these amendments guaranteed a list of rights to citizens. The Anti-Federalists were pleased with this addition because the Bill of Rights limited the central government's power.

The Bill of Rights provides protections for individual liberties and places limits on the power of our government. Say the police knock on your door and request to come inside. Which amendment allows you to say no to the police, and request that they come back with a warrant to look around?

• Fourth Amendment - illegal searches and seizures

• First Amendment - freedom to petition the government

• Second Amendment - right to bear arms

• Eighth Amendment - freedom from unfair punishments

Answer explanation

Check out the image of the Bill of Rights - The 4th Amendment has a police officer presenting a citizen with a warrant!