Debating Government Power and Individual Rights

The video discusses the Federalists and Anti-Federalists, focusing on the balance between government power and individual rights. It highlights the Anti-Federalists' concerns about a strong central government, including taxation, a standing army, and the potential loss of state sovereignty. The video explains the importance of the Bill of Rights in limiting federal power and protecting individual liberties. It also covers arguments against a Bill of Rights and examines key documents like Brutus No. 1 and Federalist No. 10, which present differing views on the role of a central government.

What term did both the Federalists and Anti-Federalists originally use to identify themselves?

• Confederalists

• Republicans

• Federalists

• Democrats

What was the main concern of the Anti-Federalists regarding the U.S. Constitution?

• Too weak central government

• Lack of a standing army

• Too strong central government

• Insufficient taxation powers

Which of the following was NOT a fear expressed by the Anti-Federalists?

• Loss of state sovereignty

• Heavy taxation

• Restricting freedom of speech

• Overpowering state courts

What did the Anti-Federalists predict about the Supreme Court?

• It would not have enough authority

• It would be biased towards the president

• It would overrule state courts

• It would be ineffective

According to the Anti-Federalists, what would a strong federal government threaten?

• International relations

• Individual liberties

• Technological advancements

• Economic growth

What specific addition did the Anti-Federalists succeed in adding to the Constitution?

• Limitation on taxation

• Bill of Rights

• Reduction of federal powers

• State veto power over federal laws

Why was the Bill of Rights not originally included in the Constitution?

• It was overlooked by mistake

• States opposed it

• It was considered unnecessary

• Delegates were exhausted

What was a key argument against the need for a federal Bill of Rights?

• It could paradoxically limit rights

• All of the above

• The Constitution already limited federal powers

• State Bills of Rights were sufficient

Which document argued that a strong federal government could control factions effectively?

• Brutus No. 1

• Federalist No. 10

• Declaration of Independence

• Articles of Confederation

Which document highlighted the benefits of small, decentralized republics?

• U.S. Constitution

• Brutus No. 1

• Bill of Rights

• Federalist No. 10