Final answer:
The opponents of the ratification of the Constitution in favor of small localized government were the Anti-Federalists. They believed that state legislatures could better protect their freedoms and feared the power of the national government. Patrick Henry, Melancton Smith, and the Virginia Anti-Federalists were prominent in this opposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The opponents of the ratification of the Constitution in favor of small localized government were known as Anti-Federalists. They feared the power of the national government and believed that state legislatures could better protect their freedoms. The Anti-Federalists argued that a strong federal government would favor the wealthy elite and threaten the sovereignty of the states. Patrick Henry, Melancton Smith, and the Virginia Anti-Federalists were key figures in opposing the ratification of the Constitution.