Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists Notes

1. The Federalists vs. The Anti-Federalists

2. The Federalists James Madison, John Jay, Alexander Hamilton Wealthier merchants bankers, lawyers, manufacturers, plantation owners. Wanted more power at the federal level than the states The Constitution was set up to protect rights of the people and the people should NOT worry. Supported a National Bank to help build the economy Liked a STRONG Central (federal, national) Government that would united the States Thought there was no need for a Bill of Rights Supported the Constitution the way it was written Leaders wrote “The Federalists’ Papers” to Explain the Constitution .

3. The Anti-Federalists Patrick Henry, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson Farmers, tradesmen, lower classes More power at the state level and not the Federal level Thought the President would act like a King States would be better at protecting the rights of the people. Opposed a National Bank – Too much power If c entral government was too strong, it would over power states WHERE ARE THE RIGHTS OF THE PEOPLE?! Wanted a Bill of Rights added to the Constitution Did not support the Constitution the way it was written