Federalists vs. Anti-Federaliss
The Battle Over the Constitution
Federalists
Want a stronger national government and support the ratification of the Constitution in hopes that it will help manage debt from the American Revolution. Also known as the "Nationalists" Federalists believed that the Bill of Rights was not necessary. They were mainly supported by large farmers, merchants, and artisans.
Antifederalists
Opposed to the development of a strong federal government and the ratification of the Constitution. This group wanted the power to remain to the state and local government. This group was largely supported by small famers in rural areas. This group believed that the Articles of Confederation needed to be amends, not abandoned.