What groups of people supported ratification of the new Constitution, and why did they support ratification?
hailey/ shelby/Andrea/lizzy -- please use the same name for your posts.
I'll be glad to check your answer.
The groups of people who supported the ratification of the new Constitution can be broadly categorized into two main factions: the Federalists and the Nationalists.
1. Federalists: The Federalists were a group comprised of elites, including wealthy landowners, merchants, lawyers, and intellectuals. They supported the ratification of the Constitution for several reasons:
a. Stronger Central Government: The Federalists believed in creating a stronger central government that would have more power and authority than the Articles of Confederation provided. They believed that a strong government would ensure stability, unity, and security for the new nation.
b. Economic Stability: Many Federalists believed that a stronger central government would be better equipped to manage the economy and address pressing financial issues like debts, inflation, and regulating trade. They saw the Constitution as a means to establish a stable economic environment conducive to business and commerce.
c. Protection of Property and Individual Rights: Federalists felt that the Constitution would provide essential safeguards for property rights and individual freedoms. They argued that a stronger central government could adequately protect these rights and prevent abuses of power by individual states or factions.
2. Nationalists: The Nationalists were another group of supporters of the new Constitution, comprised of individuals who sought to strengthen the national government and promote a sense of national identity. They supported ratification for the following reasons:
a. National Unity: Nationalists believed that a stronger central government was necessary to foster a sense of unity and national identity among the states. They argued that the United States needed a unified government to effectively handle domestic and foreign affairs and prevent disunion or fragmentation.
b. International Standing: Many Nationalists saw a stronger central government as crucial for bolstering the international standing of the United States. They believed that a more unified nation would be better positioned to negotiate treaties, handle diplomatic relationships, and assert itself on the global stage.
c. Overcoming Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation: The Nationalists recognized the deficiencies and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, the preceding governing document. They believed that a more robust central government was needed to address these shortcomings, such as the lack of revenue, difficulties in raising an army, and the inability to regulate trade effectively.
To understand the specific reasons behind the support for ratification, it is vital to research the writings, speeches, and debates of Federalist and Nationalist figures such as Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay, and others. Exploring primary sources from this time period will provide a more comprehensive understanding of their arguments and motivations.