Opposition to ratification of the constitution was based on the belief that it would a) promote pluralism, which would threaten liberty. b) produce too much democracy in a strong central government. c) give too much legislative and judicial power to the states. d) provide for elite control, endanger liberty, and weaken the states.

Opposition to ratification of the Constitution was based on the belief that it would provide for elite control, endanger liberty, and weaken the states (D). Fifty-five Delegates met on the 1787 at the Constitutional Convention to ensure changes to the Articles of Confederation.

EXPLANATION

The change from the Articles of Confederation to the United States Constitution is not an easy journey. It takes a series of tough debates both during the convention and afterwards.

There are two camps in the Great Debate: Federalist and Anti-Federalist. The Federalist camp wants the ratification of the Constitution, while the Anti-Federalist camp rejects it. The main reason for the debate is related to the addition of the Bill of Rights.

The Federalists feel that this addition is dangerous, they believe the Bill of Rights will weaken the power of the government. Whereas the Anti-Federalist camp claims that the existing Constitution has given the central government too much power. With the existence of the Bill of Rights the public will avoid the risk of oppression by the government.

Here are some of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation:

- Each state has only one vote in Congress, no matter how large

- Congress has no power to impose taxes, regulate trade between countries

- There is no national court system

LEARN MORE

If you’re interested in learning more about this topic, we recommend you to also take a look at the following questions:

•One major weakness in the ratification of the Articles of Confederation was:  link

KEYWORD: federalist, anti-federalist, ratification  

Subject: History

Class: 10-12

Subchapter: Articles of Confederation

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