1. Reading Like a Historian

2. Constitutional Convention created new Constitution in 1787 One of the biggest debates was over representation Large Population states want is based on population Smaller states wanted equal representation The Great Compromise solved the problem Bicameral Legislature Senate (2 Senators from each state) House of Representatives (1 rep. for every 30,000 people) Antifederalists did not think it was good enough Wanted more representation; Did not think 1 person could represent 30,000 people Constitution had to be ratified by 9 of the 13 states which lead to intense debates is many states Federalists – supported Constitution Antifederalists – opposed a strong central government/wanted a Bill of Rights

3. Alexander Hamilton Federalist Melancton Smith Antifederalist

4. What was Hamilton’s position on representation? What arguments does he make to support his claim? What was Smith’s position? What arguments does he make to support his claim? Based on these arguments, what type of people would you guess tended to be Federalists? Antifederalists? Do you see versions of these same issues being discussed today?

5. FederalistsAntifederalists Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay Property owners, landed rich, merchants in Northern states Believed in elitism. Saw themselves and those of their class as most fit to govern. Powerful central government. 2- house legislature, with one house (Senate) being more removed from the people, whom they generally distrusted. Patrick Henry, George Mason, Thomas Jefferson Small farmers, shopkeepers, laborers Believed in the decency of the common man and in participatory democracy (closer to direct democracy). Viewed elites as corrupt. Sought greater protection of individual Rights Wanted stronger state governments at the expense of the federal government. Frequent elections, smaller districts, more direct democracy.

6. If I had the opportunity to choose, I would have been a Federalist/Antifederalist because...