The Federalists believed that a large republic could best protect what?

The Federalists argued that a large republic could best protect individual liberty because they believed that a diverse and extensive governmental structure would create a system of checks and balances that could curb the influence of factions and prevent any one group from gaining too much power. They contended that with a greater variety of interests and opinions in a larger republic, it would be harder for a majority faction to oppress minority groups, thus safeguarding personal freedoms and rights. Their vision was rooted in the belief that a well-constructed government would ensure that the rights of individuals were respected and maintained against potential tyranny, whether that tyranny came from the majority or a powerful minority. This principle was foundational to the Federalist Papers, where they made the case for ratifying the Constitution, emphasizing how a large republic would create a more stable and just political environment for all citizens.