Final answer:
The Anti-Federalists opposed a strong central government and feared the loss of individual liberties. The Federalists argued for a unified nation and emphasized the federal nature of the proposed government. The compromise between the two created a federal republic with protections for individual rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main idea of the Anti-Federalists was to oppose the creation of a strong central government and to maintain the power of individual states. They believed that the proposed Constitution would consolidate power in a national government, robbing the states of their autonomy. Anti-Federalists argued that this would lead to a loss of individual liberties and a government controlled by wealthy elites.
The Federalists, on the other hand, argued in favor of a strong central government. They believed that a unified nation would provide stability and protect the interests of all citizens. The Federalists emphasized that the new government would still have federal characteristics, with a division of power between the national government and the states.
Ultimately, the Anti-Federalists' concerns were addressed with the ratification of the Constitution, which included the addition of a Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties. The compromise between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists created a federal republic that preserved both national and state power.