Anti-Federalist Perspectives on Government

The video discusses the Anti-Federalists' opposition to the U.S. Constitution, highlighting their belief in state sovereignty and concerns over a strong national government. Brutus, an Anti-Federalist writer, argued that a large nation could not maintain liberty and effective representation. The video explores the challenges of representation, the potential for national government overreach, and the undermining of state power. It also addresses concerns about the Constitution's provisions and the feasibility of a classical republic in a diverse nation.

What did the Anti-Federalists believe about the label 'Federalists'?

• They believed they were the true Federalists.

• They thought it was irrelevant.

• They accepted it as a compliment.

• They wanted to be called Nationalists.

According to Brutus, what was the key question regarding a national government?

• Can it increase economic growth?

• Can it expand the territory?

• Can it protect individual liberties?

• Can it maintain a strong military?

Why did Anti-Federalists believe a large nation could not have effective representation?

• Because representatives would be too busy.

• Because representatives would not know their constituents.

• Because representatives would be too powerful.

• Because representatives would be too few.

What did Brutus argue was necessary for people to trust their government?

• High taxes.

• A strong military presence.

• Knowing their representatives well.

• Frequent elections.

What did Anti-Federalists argue about the size of Congress?

• It should be smaller to be effective.

• It should be larger to represent everyone.

• It should be divided into more houses.

• It should be abolished.

What was a potential consequence of a strong national government, according to Anti-Federalists?

• More local government autonomy.

• A standing army funded by national taxes.

• Increased state power.

• Decreased national influence.

How did Anti-Federalists view the executive branch under the Constitution?

• As too weak.

• As too undefined.

• As too democratic.

• As too transparent.

What concern did Anti-Federalists have about the judiciary?

• It was too vague.

• It was too powerful.

• It was too small.

• It was too expensive.

Why did Brutus believe a classical republic could not exist in America?

• Because America was too isolated.

• Because America was too homogeneous.

• Because America was too large and diverse.

• Because America had too many resources.

What did some Federalists suggest about state governments like New York and Pennsylvania?

• They should be left unchanged.

• They should be given more power.

• They should be broken into smaller states.

• They should be combined into one state.