Who were the Anti-Federalists?
1 Answer
A group of colonists in the late 18th century who opposed the ratification of the 1787 Constitution. They believed the Constitution gave the government and elected officials too much power.
Explanation:
The anti-federalists believed that the proposed US Constitution gave the government too much power. They feared the country turning into a monarchy (a government led by one king or queen).
They opposed certain aspects of each of the 3 branches of government. For example, they believed that the small size of the Senate would limit who could win a seat and it would end up filled with only upper class officials. They believed the ability to veto gave the President too much power, and they thought having a federal court would take power away from local courts.
The anti-federalist movement was started by Patrick Henry of Virginia. Other notable members of the anti-federalist movement are: Samuel Adams, George Mason, James Monroe, and James Winthrop.
