OLD Ratification Notes

Ratification

The formal approval process of the Constitution by the states.

Federalists

Individuals who supported ratifying the Constitution and wanted a strong federal government.

Anti-Federalists

Individuals who opposed ratifying the Constitution and feared a strong national government.

The Federalist Papers

A series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay to persuade others to support ratification.

Bill of Rights

A list of protections for individual rights that Anti-Federalists argued was needed in the Constitution.

Consent of the governed

The principle that government derives its authority from the will of the people.

Checks and balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.

Delaware

The first state to ratify the Constitution.

New Hampshire (NH)

The ninth state to ratify the Constitution.

Rhode Island (RI)

The last state to ratify the Constitution.

Power of government

Held by the people, meaning that elected representatives serve the interests of their constituents.

Bicameral legislature

A legislative body with two chambers, proposed by Federalists to ensure varied representation.

Fear of a strong national government

The main concern of Anti-Federalists regarding the potential for tyranny.