What did Federalists advocate for during the ratification debate?

Federalists advocated for a strong national government during the ratification debate that followed the Constitutional Convention in 1787. Their primary concern was to create a central authority that could effectively manage issues like defense, interstate commerce, and taxation. They believed that a stronger federal government was essential to maintain order, protect individual liberties, and ensure the stability of the nation, which they felt the Articles of Confederation had failed to provide.

Federalists argued that a powerful national government would prevent the chaos and instability that had arisen under the weak framework of the Articles. They emphasized the need for a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. Their support for the Constitution reflected their vision of a united, powerful country capable of addressing both domestic and international challenges. Thus, the Federalist perspective played a critical role in the eventual ratification of the Constitution, as they successfully conveyed the importance of a strong national framework to maintain the union and promote the common good.