Question

question 1-3
which of the following was a major reason the anti-federalists were against the ratification of the constitution?
the constitution gave the states too much power.
they feared that a strong central government would lead to tyranny.
the states, being smaller, would not be able to handle the costs of a war.
the economy would be negatively affected if the constitution was ratified.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• The first option is incorrect because the Constitution actually strengthened the central government and reduced states' power compared to the Articles of Confederation.
• The second option is correct. Anti - Federalists were concerned that a strong central government (as the Constitution proposed) would be similar to the British tyranny they had fought against, and they feared it would trample on individual and states' rights.
• The third option is incorrect as the Anti - Federalists' opposition was not centered around states' ability to handle war costs.
• The fourth option is incorrect as there was no widespread belief among Anti - Federalists that the Constitution would negatively impact the economy; their main concern was about government power.

Answer:

B. They feared that a strong central government would lead to tyranny.