The constitutional convention is trying to decide on a plan to use, the Federalists or Anti Federalists. The Federalists wanted a strong central form of government. The Anti Federalists wanted less power to the national government and more power to the states. Even though the rights of the people may have been secured in the constitution, the Anti Federalists had the best plan because the Federalists gave the national government too much power and the constitution had no clearly stated bill of rights. The Anti Federalist plan included having a bill of rights that would clearly state and secure the rights of the people.
The Federalists plan did not include a bill of rights. “The document left out basic rights like freedom of speech, press, religion, and the right to a fair trial” (McClenagahan 56-58). “Without a bill of rights these liberties would be left unprotected.” The Federalists plan gave the national government too much power at the expenses of the states. States were denied the right to print their own money. (We the People... The Citizens and the Constitutions.)
The Federalist plan was developed in secret, rather than the open public (Henry.) “The framers met in secret for many months.” The plan should have been made in the open public. The federalist plan was going to undermine a form of republican government. (We the People... The Citizens and the Constitutions). The government would become big and authoritative. The capitol would be far from the people it was representing. The Anti federalist believed that this would pose a threat to the rights of the American people. (We the People... The Citizens and the Constitutions.))
Congress would have more power and fewer consequences for abusing power. ”Congresses power would be limitless towards states government. Patrick Henry says “I look upon that paper as the most fatal plan that could possibly be conceived to enslave free people.” Congress would have the power to control the
Cited: McClenagahan, William A. “American Government.” New Jersey: Person Practice Hall. 2006. Print We the People... The Citizens and the Constitutions. Center for Civic Education. New York. 2009. Print “The Sedation Act Trials- Historical Backgrounds and Documents.” Biographies. Federal Justice Center. Web. Henry, Patrick, “Speech to Virginia Ratifying Convention.” 1788. "