The Anti-Federalists were a group of individuals who opposed the ratification of the U.S. Constitution and believed in a weaker central government with more power given to the states. They were concerned that the Constitution did not include sufficient protections for individual rights.
Related terms
Federalist: Supporters of ratifying the U.S. Constitution who believed in a strong central government.
Bill of Rights: A list of individual rights and freedoms added to the U.S. Constitution, addressing concerns raised by Anti-Federalists.
Ratification: The official approval or acceptance of something, such as ratifying a constitution or treaty.