Federalist/anti-federalist

What is a federalist? Who tended to be a federalist?

A federalist is an advocate for a strong central government and the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing the importance of a unified nation over state sovereignty. Federalists were typically wealthy, urban elites, including many founders like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.

What is an anti-federalist? Who tended to be an anti-federalist?

An anti-federalist is an opponent of a strong central government and the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, advocating for greater state sovereignty and individual rights. Anti-federalists were often rural farmers and working-class citizens, including prominent figures like Patrick Henry and George Mason.

Tell me about George Washington? 

George Washington was the first President of the United States and a leader during the Revolutionary War, known for his role in drafting the Constitution and his precedent-setting presidency. He created a cabinet of advisors. He established the two term limit for presidents and promoted national unity. Established a foreign policy of neutrality. He is often referred to as the "Father of His Country."

Tell me about Alexander Hamilton.

Alexander Hamilton was a founding father, the first Secretary of the Treasury, and a key advocate for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. He established the nation's financial system and was a co-author of the Federalist Papers, promoting a strong federal government. He established the bank of the united States in 1791. He played a crucial role in shaping American fiscal policies and was instrumental in establishing the federal government's assumption of state debts.

How did Hamilton want to reshape the American Economy?

Hamilton plans led to increased investment in American manufacturing. Led to conflict with Thomas Jefferson who favored economy based on farming. He advocated for a strong federal role in the economy, establishing a national bank to stabilize and improve the nation's credit. He wrote the federalist papers to persuade citizens of the benefits of the constitution. 

Compare Shay’s rebellion and the Whiskey rebellion.

Shay's Rebellion was an armed uprising in 1786-87 by Massachusetts farmers protesting high taxes and economic injustice, while the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794 was a violent protest against a federal tax on whiskey, showcasing tensions between rural citizens and the federal government. In Shay;s rebellion the government was weak and couldn’t do much but during the Whiskey rebellion the government was much stronger so people listed and paid their taxes. 

What is the BIll of Rights?

The Bill of Rights is the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791, which guarantee individual liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press, as well as rights related to legal proceedings and protections against government overreach.

What is federalism?

Central government that shares power with state governments, allowing for a division of responsibilities and authority.