3-3: Debating the Constitution

The supporters of the Constitution published arguments in newspapers

supporting the ratification.

Anticipatory Set

Discuss with your neighbor possible reasons the states might have

supported or opposed the Constitution.

California StandardsSocial Studies 8.2.4: Describe the

political philosophy underpinning the Constitution as specified in the Federalist Papers and the role of such leaders as George Washington, Roger Sherman, Gouverneur Morris, and James Wilson in the writing and ratification of the Constitution.

Social Studies 8.2.6: Enumerate the powers of government set forth in the Constitution and the fundamental liberties ensured by the Bill of Rights.

Reading Comprehension 8.2.2: Analyze text that uses proposition and support patterns.

Inputratify: approve

Input & ModelingFederalists vs. Antifederalists

Supporters and opponents of the new Constitution argued over the need for a strong central government. The convention had set a rule that 9 states had to

ratify, or approve, the Constitution. Each state was to hold a convention. Supporters of the new Constitution were called

Federalists because they favored a strong federal government and wanted the states to ratify the constitution.

James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay published, the Federalist Papers a series of 85 newspaper essays in support of the Constitution.

Input & ModelingFederalists vs. Antifederalists

Supporters and opponents of the new Constitution argued over the need for a strong central government. Opponents of ratification were called

Antifederalists. George Mason and Patrick Henry were leading Antifederalists.

They argued the Constitution weakened the states by giving the central government too much power.

Antifederalists pointed out the Constitution had no bill of rights.

Another objection was that the Constitution provided for a President who could be reelected again and again (could become like a king).

Input & ModelingThe Ratification Debate

After intense debate, each of the 13 states ratified the Constitution. Delaware became the first state to approve the

Constitution on December 7, 1787. Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut

quickly followed. Opposition was strong in rural areas of

Massachusetts after Shay’s Rebellion. In June 1788, after Maryland and South Carolina had

approved the Constitution, New Hampshire approved it, and the necessary 9 states were secured.

Input & ModelingThe Bill of Rights

The Bill of Rights aims to protect Americans against unfair use of government powers. After the ninth state approved the Constitution,

George Washington was elected the first President, with John Adams as Vice-President.

One of the first tasks of the new Congress was to add a bill of rights.

In 1789, the first Congress passed a series of 10 amendments known as the Bill of Rights.

By December 1791, three-fourths of the states had ratified the 10 amendments, changes or additions to the constitution.