Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist

People, Power, and Politics

SS236

Federalist vs. Anti-Federalist

Framing the constitution was no easy feat. Some saw this document as only protecting the rich and having them become too powerful. They also saw it as the majority being able to make all the decisions. The “common” man or minority, viewed this as a threat which then lead to two opposing groups, the federalist and the anti-federalist. The federalist consisted of lawyers, bankers and those who thought the articles of confederation was too vague and could not govern our new nation. Although, the federalist were the wealthy they kept in mind to make sure the minority had some say as well.

The Federalist are those who favored a strong national government. While the Anti-Federalists did not want a strong national government, and would rather have strong state government. The anti-federalist wanted to prevent the national government from having too much power to prevent tyranny. The anti-federalist consisted of small farmers, shopkeepers, and other laborers.

I, personally, would side with both of the parties. I think that there is a need for a strong federal government to make important decisions but I also believe in local government and allowing the state to decide what is best for its people. In federalist No. 51, James Madison stated, “Federal governments separation of powers would prevent one branch from dominating the national government and also the rights of citizens”. (American Government, 2014 12thEdition) This statement shows that the Federalist party had all people in mind when framing the constitution. At the end of it all, the Constitution was ratified so the federalist won but the anti-federalist were able to have a great influence in the document and to maintain a system of checks and balances that keeps branches from having too much power. The bill of rights also greatly reflects the influences the anti-federalist had with making sure the people maintained certain rights and liberties.

In conclusion, I think that both federalist and anti-federalist played a huge role in shaping our government that we currently have today. Their efforts made it possible for us to have years and years of effective leadership and government. This is what makes the United States of America so great today, is that we believe in the freedoms of all people. It was not an easy road, by far, and some still have speculations on how this nation should be ran. Although not perfect, the constitution is an amazing document that has helped our nation become one of the greatest in the world. This is a direct result of both parties, the anti-federalist and federalist.

References

Anti-Federalist vs Federalist. (). Retrieved from https://www.diffen.com/difference/Anti-Federalist_vs_Federalist