Constitutional Debates

Definition

The constitutional debates refer to the discussions and disagreements between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson over the interpretation and implementation of the United States Constitution.

Related terms

Federalists: Supporters of a strong central government led by Alexander Hamilton who believed in loose interpretation of the Constitution.

Democratic-Republicans: Led by Thomas Jefferson, they favored states' rights and strict interpretation of the Constitution.

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution that were added in response to concerns raised during the constitutional debates, protecting individual liberties.