Who opposed the Constitution and favored the inclusion of a Bill of Rights?

The group that opposed the Constitution and advocated for a Bill of Rights was comprised of the Anti-Federalists. They were concerned that the new Constitution would create a strong central government that might infringe on individual liberties and states’ rights. Their opposition stemmed from a belief that without explicit protections for individual rights, such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, the government could become tyrannical.

The Anti-Federalists argued that a Bill of Rights was essential to safeguard the freedoms of individuals and limit government power. Prominent figures among the Anti-Federalists, such as Patrick Henry and George Mason, emphasized the importance of these protections during the debates surrounding the ratification of the Constitution. Their advocacy was instrumental in the eventual adoption of the first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, in 1791, addressing the concerns they raised during the ratification process.

The other groups mentioned did not share the same views on the need for a Bill of Rights; Federalists, in particular, believed that the Constitution itself provided a framework that limited government power effectively without the necessity of a separate Bill of Rights.