Unit 3: Debating and Ratifying the Constitution
Mastery Outcomes
Outcome 9: Explain the process of ratification and its connection to social contract theory.
Outcome 10: Identify the main arguments for and against ratification as presented by the Federalists and Anti-Federalists.
Practice Hearing Question 1:
“Although posterity has tended to emphasize the work of the Constitution’s framers in the Federal Convention of 1787, the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1787–1788 was a landmark in the history of government.” What evidence can you offer to support or dispute this claim?
• What concerns did the Anti-federalists have about the Constitution and why was it important that these concerns be addressed?
• In what ways, if any, was the plan for ratification an example of social contract theory? What importance does this hold for us today?
