Ratification of the U.S. Constitution Quiz

The Constitution was initially supported by those who favored a strong central government, specifically the wealthy merchants and elites living in coastal areas.

Opponents of the Constitution feared a strong central government, especially those living in rural areas and frontier regions who were suspicious of government power.

Antifederalists argued that the Constitution, crafted by the elite, was antidemocratic and favored powerful interests over the common people.

Antifederalists strongly opposed the absence of a Bill of Rights that would guarantee individual liberties and freedoms.

Antifederalists criticized the extended terms for congressional representatives, perceiving it as a move away from direct democratic principles.

Antifederalists objected to the establishment of a permanent army, fearing its potential for tyranny and suppression.

The omission of any formal reference to religion in the Constitution raised concerns among antifederalists, who saw it as neglecting a crucial aspect of American life.

Antifederalists found the ratification process questionable, with only two-thirds of the states needed to approve the Constitution, suggesting a lack of widespread consensus.

The process of formally accepting the Constitution and making it the law of the land. This involved state conventions approving the document.

Individuals opposing the adoption of the Constitution. They feared a strong central government might take away individual liberties and empower a wealthy elite.

Those who supported the ratification of the Constitution. They believed a strong central government was necessary to stabilize the nation and resolve issues like interstate trade.

The framers bypassed the existing government and made the Constitution accountable to the people through state conventions. This shifted power from legislatures to the people.

Despite a divided Congress, the Constitution was submitted to the states for ratification without any kind of recommendation. This meant each state had to decide on its own.

The Constitution would become the supreme law of the land in states that ratified it. This signified a significant shift in power and authority.

The Antifederalists were concerned about the economic implications of the Constitution, fearing that a strong government would force them to repay their debts at full value.

The Federalists, generally wealthier and more educated, possessed greater influence and resources, including control over the press. They enjoyed the support of influential figures like George Washington.

The Constitution's preamble emphasized the importance of a strong central government to protect individual rights and property. This reflected the delegates' commitment to republican principles and their fears of mob rule.

The Founding Fathers believed a strong central government with three distinct branches (executive, legislative, and judicial) was necessary, along with checks and balances to prevent tyranny.

The Founding Fathers feared a system of direct democracy (government by the majority), where the rights of minorities could be easily trampled upon.

The delegates feared the influence of Shay's Rebellion, which highlighted the weakness of the Articles of Confederation and the need for a stronger central government.

The delegates wanted to create a more unified nation by establishing a federal system, with a strong national government combined with individual state governments.

The Constitution granted Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, a significant shift from the Articles of Confederation which lacked this authority. This aimed to promote national economic growth and cooperation.

The Constitution granted Congress significantly expanded taxing powers compared to the Articles of Confederation, allowing the national government to collect revenues to finance its operation and national projects.

The Constitution created the presidency, establishing a strong executive branch with significant power to enforce laws and oversee the nation's affairs.