Americans who opposed ratifying the Constitution in the late 1780s were called Anti‑Federalists.

Quick Scoop: The Essential Answer

  • The organized critics of the proposed 1787 U.S. Constitution were known as Anti‑Federalists.
  • They feared a powerful central government, worried the president might resemble a monarch, and pushed hard for a Bill of Rights.

In short: Federalists wanted ratification; Anti‑Federalists fought it and helped secure the Bill of Rights.

Tiny Historical Snapshot

  • Key Anti‑Federalist voices included Patrick Henry, George Mason, and others who argued the Constitution gave too much power to the national government at the expense of the states.
  • Their resistance did not stop ratification, but it directly contributed to adding the first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights.

Related Terms (Fast Reference)

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Group Position on Constitution Core Concern
Federalists Supported ratification.Wanted a stronger national government.
Anti‑Federalists Opposed ratification.Feared centralized power; demanded a Bill of Rights.
**TL;DR:** The term you’re looking for is **“Anti‑Federalists.”**

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