The Federalists vs.

The Anti-Federalists

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.

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 central 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