Ratification Period

Definition

The Ratification Period refers to the time frame following the Constitutional Convention of 1787 during which the newly drafted United States Constitution was submitted to the states for approval. This period, lasting from September 1787 to June 1788, was marked by intense debates and discussions among Federalists and Anti-Federalists regarding the merits and potential drawbacks of the Constitution. It laid the foundation for the establishment of a stronger federal government and highlighted the divisions in American society over governance and individual rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ratification Period began after the Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, and lasted until June 21, 1788, when New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify it.
2. During this time, intense debates took place in state conventions, where delegates discussed the implications of adopting the new Constitution versus remaining under the Articles of Confederation.
3. The Federalist Papers played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and persuading key states like New York and Virginia to ratify the Constitution.
4. Many Anti-Federalists were concerned about the lack of a Bill of Rights in the original Constitution, fearing that it did not adequately protect individual liberties.
5. The Ratification Period ended with a total of 13 states ultimately ratifying the Constitution, paving the way for its implementation and leading to the establishment of a functioning federal government.

Review Questions

• How did the arguments presented by Federalists and Anti-Federalists during the Ratification Period reflect broader societal concerns about governance?
  • The debates between Federalists and Anti-Federalists during the Ratification Period highlighted fundamental concerns about governance in post-Revolutionary America. Federalists emphasized the need for a strong national government to maintain order and unity, while Anti-Federalists raised alarms about potential overreach and loss of individual rights. These opposing viewpoints showcased a society grappling with the balance between liberty and security, reflecting diverse opinions on how best to ensure a stable government without compromising personal freedoms.
• Evaluate the impact of The Federalist Papers on public support for ratification during this period.
  • The Federalist Papers significantly influenced public support for ratification by providing detailed arguments in favor of the Constitution's framework. Authored by prominent figures like Hamilton, Madison, and Jay, these essays addressed concerns raised by Anti-Federalists and offered explanations about how a stronger federal government would function effectively. Their persuasive writing reached a wide audience through publication in newspapers, swaying public opinion and ultimately helping to secure ratification in pivotal states such as New York and Virginia.
• Assess how the absence of a Bill of Rights during the Ratification Period influenced future constitutional amendments.
  • The absence of a Bill of Rights during the Ratification Period was a major point of contention that fueled opposition from Anti-Federalists. Their concerns about protecting individual liberties led to promises from Federalists that amendments would be added after ratification. This resulted in a commitment to drafting the Bill of Rights, which was adopted in 1791 as the first ten amendments to the Constitution. The debate over these rights not only shaped early American governance but also set a precedent for constitutional amendments as a means of addressing societal concerns in future legislative processes.

Related terms

Federalists:

Supporters of the proposed Constitution who advocated for a strong national government and emphasized the need for a unified nation.

Anti-Federalists: Opponents of the Constitution who argued against a strong central government, fearing it would undermine individual liberties and state sovereignty.

The Federalist Papers:

A series of essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay that argued in favor of ratification of the Constitution and explained its principles.