Final answer:
The Anti-Federalists' strongest arguments were their concerns about a strong central government and the lack of a Bill of Rights. The Federalists would respond by emphasizing the importance of a strong national government for protecting individual freedom and promoting stability and unity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Anti-Federalists had several strong arguments against the ratification of the Constitution. One of their main concerns was that a strong central government would become oppressive and infringe upon the rights of the people. They believed that the Constitution lacked a Bill of Rights, which would provide necessary limitations on the government's power. Additionally, the Anti-Federalists feared that a strong central government would favor the wealthy and neglect the interests of the working class. They favored a political union where the states had more power.
If I were a Federalist responding to the Anti-Federalists, I would acknowledge their concerns and emphasize the importance of a strong national government. I would argue that a large republic would protect individual freedom and provide a more stable and unified country. I would also explain that the separation of powers and checks and balances in the Constitution would prevent any one branch or individual from becoming too powerful. Finally, I would highlight that the Federalists' argument prevailed, and the Constitution was ultimately ratified, suggesting that their vision for a strong national government was favored by the majority.