Blue Creek Elementary School Mr. Heath

Vocabulary faction—a group of people who supports or opposes a particular political viewpoint and is opposed by another faction ratify—to formally or officially approve or adopt a constitution usually by vote

Adopting the Constitution Two Factions Federalists—those who supported the new Constitution and wanted it to be adopted Antifederalists—opposed the new Constitution and tried to get people to reject it.

The Antifederalists Antifederalists were opposed the Constitution because it did not include a Bill of Rights. Feared that the new national government would be too powerful Wanted a guarantee that certain rights could not be taken away

Ratification Nine states would be needed to approve the Constitution in order for it to be adopted. Each state met in their own conventions to decide on the new Constitution North Carolina and New York would not approve the new Constitution without a Bill of Rights. New Hampshire became the 9 th state to ratify the Constitution on June 21, 1788 The Constitution took effect in March of 1789.

The Bill of Rights Proposed by James Madison First 10 amendments to the Constitution Amendment—change or addition to a constitution The Bill of Rights ratified in 1791

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights —THE 1 ST AMENDMENT Freedom of speech (to express your opinions) Freedom of the press To express your opinions in writing To publish your opinions in newspapers, books, magazines, on the internet, etc.

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights —THE 1 ST AMENDMENT Freedom to assemble (gather in groups) Freedom to protest decisions made by the government

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights —THE 1 ST AMENDMENT Freedom of Religion (Freedom of Worship) The government will not force you to be a member of a specific church

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights —The Other Amendments Citizens cannot be required to quarter soldiers in peacetime (cannot be required to house and feed troops) Right to bear arms—own firearms

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights —The Other Amendments Rights to be treated fairly if you have been accused of a crime Speedy Trial Trial by Jury Face Your Accusers Cannot be compelled to testify against yourself Right against “cruel or unusual” punishment Restricts government from searching your house or possessions without a search warrant