In the context of Advanced Placement United States History, the term refers to individuals who opposed the ratification of the 1787 United States Constitution. This group was not a monolithic entity but rather a diverse collection of people with varying motivations and concerns. They feared a powerful central government and advocated for stronger state governments, believing this structure would better protect individual liberties. Prominent figures associated with this viewpoint included Patrick Henry and George Mason.
Understanding their arguments is crucial for grasping the debates surrounding the Constitution’s adoption and the subsequent development of American political thought. Their opposition ultimately led to the inclusion of the Bill of Rights, which addressed many of their concerns regarding the protection of individual freedoms from governmental overreach. Studying their perspectives provides valuable insight into the enduring tension between federal authority and states’ rights that continues to shape American politics.