Anti-Federalists opposed the new US Constitution because they believed it concentrated too much power in the national government and threatened individual liberties. They argued for stronger state governments, direct elections, and term limits to empower common people. While initially against ratifying the Constitution, Anti-Federalists eventually supported it after the Bill of Rights was added to protect individual rights.
2. Anti-federalists believed that the new government based on the Constitution was an “enemy of freedom”. Anti-Federalists were made up of small farmers, shopkeepers, laborersnot prominenant business owners Eventually the group known as the Anti-Federalists would become the Democratic- Republican Party of Thomas Jefferson. Back Ground Information
6. What they were against… The New Constitution to them was a class-based document It is intended to ensure that a particular economic elite controlled the public policies of national government It would erode the fundamental liberties. A constitutional government would be too strong in their eyes. They believed that a strong national government would become a threat to individuals' rights, and the President would be considered a king
7. What they argued for… They often believed that the Articles of Confederation were enough to guide the national government. Strong state governments & weak national governments direct election of officials. shorter terms rule by the “common man” strengthened protections for individual liberties (Bill of Rights)
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9. What eventually happened Both Federalists and Anti-Federalists compromised by agreeing to add amendments to the document, specifically to protect the individual rights and liberties of the people. This would become the Bill of Rights.
10. Why it’s important to now -It protected the basic rights of the people via the Bill of Rights -it brought a more conservative government to our nation
