Final answer:
The Anti-Federalists, influenced by the fear of centralization and past colonial experiences with Britain, advocated for states' rights and individual liberties, leading to their demand for a Bill of Rights to be included in the U.S. Constitution.
Step-by-step explanation:
In speaking out against a powerful national government, the Anti-Federalists showed that they had been greatly influenced by their desire to protect states' rights and individual liberties. They feared that a strong central government could become too powerful, potentially favoring a political aristocracy over the common people. Leaders like Patrick Henry and writers like Melancton Smith voiced concerns that this powerful government would be to the detriment of state sovereignty and individual liberty.
The Anti-Federalists were also inspired by past experiences with Britain's overbearing rule over the colonies, which raised fears of centralization and loss of local control. Furthermore, their writings suggested the need for a Bill of Rights to protect citizens against potential government oppression. This historical perspective played a crucial role in shaping the development of the United States Constitution and the subsequent political landscape of the new republic.