Federalists v. Anti-Federalists

Federalists

Supported the ratification of the Constitution.

Federalists

Led by figures like Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, George Washington, and James Madison.

Federalists

Favored urban areas and found support there.

Federalists

Wanted a strong and central government.

Federalists

Wrote 85 essays as a part of the Federalist Papers.

Anti-Federalists

Against the ratification of the Constitution.

Anti-Federalists

Led by figures like John Hancock, Patrick Henry ("smelled a rat" and didn't come), and Richard Henry Lee.

Anti-Federalists

Favored rural areas and found support there.

Anti-Federalists

Wanted state governments to have most political power.

Anti-Federalists

Wanted a Bill of Rights added to the Constitution.

Anti-Federalists

Hated how the Constitution did not mention God.