American Political
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From the distant past of out nations origins till the present, Americans have relished upon political controversy. The founders of our republic, along with their hallowed truths, have been subject to argument and debate. The ratification of the Constitution, perhaps the most profound debate in our nations history. More than 200 years ago supporters of the Constitution, Federalists, and their opponent, the anti- federalists, disagreed on what kind of republic this nation should have. Even today this topic is still heavily thought over to reflect upon our nations present dilemmas.
James Madison, one of the greatest thinkers among the Federalist, favors in his classic essay “Federalist No. 10,” the large, national republic presented in the Constitution. In the large republic created by the Constitution, things will be more just and rational. Representatives elected in large districts would be the most distinguished and patriotic citizens. The most selfish and short sighted would all be weeded out in larger districts. More diversity is present in large districts, which makes it difficult for a majority to form unless it is for common good. A representative chosen by a greater number of citizens will be less likely to be unworthy. “Small republics thus allow the worst qualities in human nature to prevail.” If we were to have small republics, every individual states will only be looking out for their own interests and no majority will be met on issues facing the nation as a whole. No national defense can be formed if each small republic is independent. These, among many other reasons, are why the Constitution should be ratified.
While the Federalists supported the ratification of the Constitution, the Anti-Federalists favored smaller republics. Brutus, whose actual identity is no quite known, wrote an essay “Anti-Federalist Paper,” which argued for the creation of smaller republics. With small republics the people will share common economic and social characteristics. With common interests and goals there will be no factions. Also electoral districts will be smaller, which allows voters to know their representative on a more personal level. Brutus states that smaller republics, “educate law-abiding and virtuous citizens.” The Constitution gives absolute power to the national government. The national government is able to pass any law that they believe is “necessary and proper,” which can lead to an oppressive government. The government also has the power to lay taxes, duties, imposts, and excises with no limitation. The Constitution gives too much power to the national government and leaves the states lesser power. The Constitution, if ratified, would not directly involve ordinary citizens in government. Ordinary citizens vote for representative that is suppose to represent a huge area, which raises the question, is everyone in the country equally represented? The