The first ten amendments to the constitution (also known as the bill of rights) had to be ratified by 9 of the 13 states before the constitution could go into effect. limit the power of state governments and reserve those rights for the federal government. clearly limit the powers of the federal government and protect the rights of individuals. were promoted and supported by the federalists as a means to keep the power of government in check.

The federalists objective was to establish a strong central government. Some of the most defining points the party has used are in the federalists papers, mostly made from Alexander Hamilton. These letters urged for the ratification of the constitution, and defined what should be individual and state rights and checks and balances. Some defining points in national documents are that an individual has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The allowance of a peaceful public meeting, the custody of a legally owned gun, etc.