Adopting the Constitution Blue Creek Elementary School

Mr. Heath

Vocabulary faction—a group of people who supports or

opposes a particular political viewpoint and is opposed by another faction

ratify—to formally or officially approve or adopt a constitution usually by vote

Adopting the Constitution Two Factions Federalists—those who supported the new

Constitution and wanted it to be adopted Antifederalists—opposed the new

Constitution and tried to get people to reject it.

The Antifederalists Antifederalists were opposed the Constitution

because it did not include a Bill of Rights. Feared that the new national government

would be too powerful Wanted a guarantee that certain rights could

not be taken away

Ratification• Nine states would be needed to approve the

Constitution in order for it to be adopted. • Each state met in their own conventions to

decide on the new Constitution• North Carolina and New York would not

approve the new Constitution without a Bill of Rights.

• New Hampshire became the 9th state to ratify the Constitution on June 21, 1788

• The Constitution took effect in March of 1789.

The Bill of Rights

Proposed by James Madison First 10 amendments to the

Constitution Amendment—change or addition to a

constitution The Bill of Rights ratified in 1791

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights—THE 1ST AMENDMENT

Freedom of speech (to express your opinions)

Freedom of the press

To express your opinions in writing

To publish your opinions in newspapers, books, magazines, on the internet, etc.

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights—THE 1ST AMENDMENT

Freedom to assemble (gather in groups)

Freedom to protest decisions made by the government

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights—THE 1ST AMENDMENTFreedom of Religion (Freedom of Worship)

The government will not force you to be a member of a specific church

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights—The Other Amendments

Citizens cannot be required to quarter soldiers in peacetime (cannot be required to house and feed troops)

Right to bear arms—own firearms

Rights Guaranteed by the Bill of Rights—The Other AmendmentsRights to be treated

fairly if you have been accused of a crime Speedy TrialTrial by Jury Face Your Accusers Cannot be compelled

to testify against yourself

Right against “cruel or unusual” punishment

Restricts government from searching your house or possessions without a search warrant