GED Social Studies TestCivics and GovernmentMedium
A political science student is analyzing the historical context of the U.S. Constitution. They learn that many Anti-Federalists opposed its ratification, primarily because they feared the new national government would be too powerful and might infringe upon individual liberties. What was the most significant action taken to address these Anti-Federalist concerns and secure the Constitution's ratification?
- AEstablishing the Electoral College
- BCreating a bicameral legislature
- CAdding the Bill of Rights
- DImplementing the Three-Fifths Compromise
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Adding the Bill of Rights
The Anti-Federalists' primary concern was the lack of protection for individual liberties. The promise and subsequent addition of the Bill of Rights, which enumerates specific rights and limitations on government power, was crucial in addressing these fears and securing ratification.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The Electoral College addressed how the President would be elected, not individual liberties.
- B. A bicameral legislature (Great Compromise) dealt with state representation, not individual rights.
- D. The Three-Fifths Compromise addressed the counting of enslaved people for representation and taxation purposes.
Anti-Federalist Concerns & Bill of Rights
Anti-Federalists feared a strong central government without a guarantee of individual rights. The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution to address these concerns and secure its ratification.
- Anti-Federalists worried about potential tyranny.
- Demanded explicit protection for fundamental freedoms.
- Bill of Rights lists specific individual liberties.
- Crucial for gaining enough support for ratification.
Memory trick: Anti-Federalists feared power, Bill of Rights gave them peace.