Final answer:
James Madison, George Washington, and the promise of a Bill of Rights played crucial roles in convincing many Americans to support the ratification of the Constitution. The Federalists' organized efforts and the departure of key Antifederalists from the national stage also contributed to the successful ratification. Economic interests according to Historian Charles Beard, also played a role, with urban Americans generally supporting and rural Americans often opposing the Constitution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The push for the ratification of the Constitution saw persuasive efforts from key figures, particularly the Federalists. In Virginia, the active support of James Madison, alongside the influence of George Washington, played a significant role in changing the minds of many who were initially opposed to the Constitution. The addition of the promise of a Bill of Rights, akin to the Virginia Declaration of Rights, was decisive in gaining support for the Constitution's ratification.
Meanwhile, prominent Antifederalists like Patrick Henry retreated from national politics after the Constitution's ratification, leaving federalists to dominate the new government. Historian Charles Beard posited that economic interests also influenced opinions on the Constitution, with urban Americans of all economic statuses tending to support ratification in the belief that it would promote commerce, and rural Americans largely opposing it.
Ultimately, the ratification debates underscored a key aspect of American democracy: the struggle to balance power between the states and the federal government.