Riley- Federalist
Allie- Anti-Federalist
Washington’s Paragraph
Greetings, delegates of the Constitutional Convention of 1787 in Philadelphia’s Independence
Hall. Anti-Federalists, and Federalists, we present you an important matter concerning the
ratification of the Constitution with a bill of rights or without. This topic is a significant
component in forming our nation.
Robert Yates, a politician and judge, is well known for his Anti-Federalist stances, meaning that
he opposes the idea of a strong central government. In 1787 and 1788, he wrote political essays
under the pseudonyms "Brutus" and "Sydney". Alexander Hamilton is a devoted Federalist,
meaning he is in favor of a strong central government. Co writer alongside James Madison and
John Jay of the 85 Federalist Papers, he is one of the most influential promoters of the
Constitution. With that being said, Hamilton and Yates, we give you our undivided attention.
Script
Allie: We, Anti-Federalists, oppose the Constitution asserting it gives too much power to the
central government. In addition, we are concerned that the Constitution does not have a bill of
rights ensuring our basic freedoms.
Riley: “[ I ] affirm that bills of rights, in the sense and to the extent in which they are contended
for, are not only unnecessary in the proposed Constitution, but would even be dangerous.”
Allie: “ [England's] Magna Carta and bill of rights have long been the boast, as well as the
security of that nation. I need say no more… to an American, than that this principle is a
fundamental one… It is, therefore, the more astonishing, that this grand security to the rights of
the people is not to be found in this Constitution.” I disagree with you, Hamilton, stating that a
bill of rights is necessary because it ensures fundamental freedoms.
Riley: A bill of rights is already woven into the Constitution.
The Magna Carta, meaning 'The Great Charter', was originally issued by King John of
England. It was a treaty between the King and his subjects ensuring the equality of free men.
Previously, he imposed heavy taxes on his barons in order to pay off foreign affairs for war. If
they did not pay the tax, he punished them… This occurred a fairly long time ago, Yates. Why
must you mention this now? WE FLED FROM BRITAIN! We do not want to leave a trace of
England here.
Allie:Yes, but the Magna Carta influences colonists to create the Bill of Rights… AND THE
MAGNA CARTA WAS A GOOD AGREEMENT! Even though the agreement did not last long
in England, it still was a good treaty. And, what’s more, we have citizens who will follow the
law! f the people want a bill of rights, then we, as rightful politicians, shall give the citizens what
they want.
Riley: You have not foreseen a possible reaction from the citizens that is essential in making the
decision of whether or not a bill of rights is necessary. You cannot predict that citizens will not
begin assuming they possess rights and privileges they do not have.
Allie: The Bill of Rights shall be specific enough so this will not happen.
I consider the Bill of Rights necessary because it will address citizens’ rights, such as freedom of
the press, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to peacefully assemble, and the right
to bear arms.
Americans deeply care about these freedoms, Hamilton.
Riley: That is precisely the problem! A bill of rights mentions, no doubt, important rights that
citizens should be entitled to - freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly and
freedom of the press. However, what of the millions of other rights citizens are entitled to?
Citizens will wonder why they are not entitled to those other rights and, on this very account,
would afford a colorable pretext to claim more than were granted.
If a bill of rights does happen to be ratified, there will be a time when is expanded. Remember,
we are creating these documents for our children and future generations. What if one day citizens
abuse the right to bear arms? Citizen’s may argue that it is for self defense but this will endanger
future generations.
Allie: What about the other rights! (?) Citizens may have as many rights as they want! Why are
you so concerned with the citizens having too many rights?! We left Britain FOR A REASON!
Britain is in shambles now, Hamilton. You and I both know that as a fact. (I am also speaking on
the delegates behalf.) We do not want England in America! If that is what you desire, I strongly
suggest you return to Britain-Riley: -- As you said previously, we have people who will follow the law here; we want rights
but we do not want a complete anarchy is this country! Besides, stop talking about Britain!!! As
times have changed from Britain to where we are now-Allie: -- Yes, Hamilton, times have changed and will continue to. And YES, the Bill of Rights
will change with it. Maybe, the Bill of Rights, if passed, (- frustration-) will be in the best
interest of the people.
Riley: Perhaps, it will not be in the best interest of the people!
THE END