Federalists and Anti-Federalists

The Federalists and Anti-Federalists were two pivotal factions in early American political discourse, profoundly influencing the nation's foundational principles. Emerging during the ratification debates of the United States Constitution, these groups diverged in their visions for the fledgling republic. Federalists, led by figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, advocated for a strong central government to ensure stability and national unity. Conversely, Anti-Federalists, represented by individuals such as Patrick Henry and George Mason, emphasized the importance of individual liberties and feared centralized power. This ideological divide laid the groundwork for significant constitutional debates that shaped the course of American history.

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