AntiFederalist
The Anti-Federalists were a political faction in the late 18th century that opposed the ratification of the United States Constitution. They were a diverse group of individuals who, while often supporting the revolution and the ideals of American liberty, harbored significant reservations about the proposed federal government. A primary concern of the Anti-Federalists was the potential for a strong central government to become tyrannical, mirroring the British monarchy they had just overthrown. They feared that the Constitution did not adequately protect individual rights and the sovereignty of the states.
Key figures associated with the Anti-Federalist movement included Patrick Henry, George Mason, and Melancton Smith. They
The Anti-Federalists published numerous essays and pamphlets, collectively known as the Anti-Federalist Papers, to articulate their