Anti-Federalist Movement

Definition

This was a movement that opposed the creation of a stronger U.S. federal government and which later opposed ratification of the Constitution in 1788.

Analogy

Imagine if your school proposed stricter rules and longer hours. Some students (the anti-federalists) might oppose these changes because they value their freedom and worry about too much power being given to school authorities.

Related terms

Federalist Papers: A series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay promoting ratification of the Constitution.

Articles of Confederation: The first constitution adopted by America’s thirteen colonies which established a weak central government.

Ratification Debates: Debates held over whether or not to approve (ratify) the newly proposed U.S. Constitution.