During the time of the ratification of the Constitution of the United States, two camps of political thought emerged. The beginnings of the two political parties had served as the basis for the American political process. The two parties were the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. They were very different in opinions on how the government should be run. The two parties" differences led to many debates and compromises. .
There were many major differences between the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. At the Constitutional Convention, debates were centered on how strong the chief executive and the national government should be in relation to the states and the people. After the American Revolution, the delegates established the Articles of Confederation. However, the new government provided too much power to the states and proved inadequate for meeting the problems of the United States. Unsatisfied with the government, the Federalists sought to create a Constitution that promoted a republican government in which it would strengthen the national government that could serve the purpose of providing for general defense, protection, and common welfare. The Federalists also wanted separation of powers and checks and balances in the federal government. Power should be divided among the three branches to prevent abuse of power. The executive branch should be granted more power and the judicial branch should be made independent. The Federalists believed having a strong executive would be the first essential of good government. They also believed in limiting the power of the Congress, which would prevent them from abusing their privilege. As for the Senate, the Federalists wanted people with greater knowledge and stability of character. Each state's senators would be appointed by state legislatures and each state would be equally represented. Another disagreement among the two different parties was the bill of rights.