Overview
This lecture covers the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, the debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists, the creation of the Bill of Rights, and the significance of federalism in the new government.
Ratification of the Constitution
- The Philadelphia Convention completed the Constitution in September 1788, and George Washington signed first.
- The Confederation Congress sent the Constitution to states for ratification via special state conventions.
- Ratification was debated nationwide in conventions, newspapers, and public spaces.
- State conventions were deeply divided, reflecting the population’s differing views.
Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists
- Federalists supported ratification; leaders included James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay.
- Federalists were younger, more organized, and familiar with the Convention’s issues.
- Anti-Federalists opposed ratification, fearing a strong central government and lack of a bill of rights.
- Anti-Federalists argued the Constitution could lead to tyranny and failed to protect states’ and individual rights.
The Federalist Papers
- Federalist Papers (85 essays) written by Jay, Hamilton, and Madison defended the Constitution.
- Madison’s Federalist No. 10 argued a large republic better controls factions and protects minority rights.
- Federalist Papers reassured the public and swayed opinion toward ratification.
Ratification Process and the Bill of Rights
- By June 1788, nine states had ratified, making the Constitution law, but New York and Virginia held out.
- Anti-Federalists in these key states demanded a Bill of Rights to protect liberties.
- A compromise led to proposed constitutional amendments; Congress received over 250.
- James Madison and George Mason condensed these into 12 amendments; 10 were ratified as the Bill of Rights.
Significance and Structure of the Constitution
- The Bill of Rights protects individual liberties (speech, press, assembly, trial by jury, etc.) and state powers (10th Amendment).
- The Constitution fixed weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, such as lack of unity, justice, and defense.
- It established federalism: power shared between a sovereign national government and sovereign state governments.
- The Preamble outlines the goals: unity, justice, tranquility, defense, welfare, and liberty.
- Balance of power between national and state governments is key to the Constitution’s lasting success.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Federalist — Supporter of Constitution ratification, favoring strong central government.
- Anti-Federalist — Opposed ratification, feared central power and lack of rights protections.
- Federalist Papers — Essays defending the Constitution and addressing Anti-Federalist concerns.
- Bill of Rights — First ten amendments ensuring individual and state rights.
- Federalism — System dividing powers between national and state governments.
- Preamble — Introduction to the Constitution stating its purposes.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the first ten amendments (Bill of Rights).
- Study the Federalist Papers, especially No. 10, for exam preparation.
- Prepare for discussion on federalism’s impact on American government.