Who were notable figures among the Antifederalists?

The Antifederalists were a group that emerged during the debate over the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, primarily opposing the balance of power that it created. Notable figures among the Antifederalists included Samuel Adams and Patrick Henry, both of whom voiced significant concerns about the potential overreach of federal power and the lack of explicit protections for individual rights in the proposed Constitution.

Samuel Adams, often referred to as the "Father of the American Revolution," was a strong advocate for democratic principles and the protection of civil liberties, voicing fears that the Constitution would create a strong central government that could undermine state authority and individual freedoms. Patrick Henry, known for his fiery rhetoric, famously declared, “Give me liberty, or give me death!" He was an outspoken critic who argued for the inclusion of a Bill of Rights to safeguard the liberties of the people against possible government tyranny.

Their contributions were instrumental in shaping the discussions surrounding the Constitution and led to the eventual adoption of the Bill of Rights, which addressed some of the Antifederalists’ concerns. This context underscores their significance within the Antifederalist movement and the ongoing dialogue about the balance of power between state and federal authorities.