Final answer:
The farmer is likely expressing concern that a national government would struggle to resolve inter-state disputes fairly, an opinion that aligns with option (b). This concern is rooted in historical troubles of the early American government to maintain national unity and adequately address internal conflicts, as well as the ongoing debate between centralized authority and states' rights. Option B is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The farmer is expressing his concerns about the potential weaknesses of a national government, hinting at the historical context of the early United States, where the government's ability to resolve disputes and maintain peace and harmony was in question.
Referencing the historical texts provided, it appears that the farmer's statement aligns most closely with option (b), a national government will not be able to fairly solve arguments between states. This sentiment is echoed in the historical frustrations where the government under the Articles of Confederation failed to adequately address internal disputes, such as the ones led by disgruntled farmers, and the inability to manage factional interests which were considered a threat to the public good and unity of the nation.
The various historical references show that leaders and thinkers like George Washington, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson recognized the need for a stronger, more centralized government that could effectively manage relations between states and maintain a cohesive national policy. The struggle for such a balance of power, resolving conflicts of interest, and the debate between a strong centralized authority versus states' rights has been a recurring theme in American history, notably exemplified during the era of the Civil War.