The document discusses the priorities of Federalists and Antifederalists during the creation of the US Constitution, and how their debate reflects 18th century American politics. It also asks how we can balance civil liberties with national security when combating terrorism, whether more liberty or security is preferable, and if Americans still support liberty restrictions enacted after 9/11 for increased security.

1. Post at least one response for each topic below:
Compare and contrast the priorities of the Federalists and Antifederalists for the design of the
new Constitution. Although the Federalists argued for a stronger central government (and
in many ways, they got one), the Antifederalists won important battles, such as the adoption
of the Bill of Rights and the retention of power in the states. What does the debate between
Federalists and Antifederalists tell us about American politics in the late eighteenth
century? In what ways are the values and concerns of these two groups similar to or
different from today's political debates?
2. Combating terrorism has entailed restrictions on civil liberties. How can we reconcile civil
liberty and national security? Are we better off opting for more liberty or more security?
Are the two goals mutually exclusive? Have Americans become less supportive of the
limitations on liberty put into place after the terror attacks in 2001, or do they still perceive
that it makes sense to give up some liberties in order to feel more secure?
Bibliography
We the People (Essentials Edition), Author:W.W. Norton Courseware
Edition:13th