Chapter 5.2: Creating Our Constitution

1. Chapter 5.2: Creating Our Constitution Class Notes

2. Introduction • After the delegates at the Convention signed off on the Constitution, each state had their own Convention to ratify the Constitution. • Nine of the thirteen states needed to ratify the Constitution in order or it to take effect.

3. Federalists • Federalists supported the ratification of the Constitution • They supported a strong national government because: • It provided protection from foreign nations. • It was able to maintain order within the United States. • It allowed the government to regulate trade. • It helped to guarantee rights to citizens. • The national government was able to pay off debts. • Ensured that the value of our dollar was stable.

4. Anti-Federalists • Anti-Federalists opposed the ratification of the Constitution because: • The Congress met too far away from the people that they could not be called a government by consent of the people. • The term “necessary and proper” in the Constitution could allow Congress to use too much power. • There was no Bill of Rights

5. The Federalist Papers • Main Authors: James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay • The Federalist Papers were a collection of essays urging people to support the ratification of the Constitution. • They argued that: • If a new stronger government was not formed, that other world powers could overtake them. • That citizens’ freedoms would be better protected because all groups and interests would have an opportunity to be represented. • A stronger government was needed to replace the weak Articles of Confederation

6. Ratification • All 13 states ratified the Constitution within a three year period 1787-1790.