Question

Why did North Carolina and Rhode Island not ratify the Constitution at first?

Answer 1

During the debate period on the rectification of the constitution numerous speeches and articles of local and independent character were published throughout the country. Over time some leading figures of the revolution like Patrick Henry publicly declared their opposition to the constitution. They argued that the strong national government proposed by the federalists constituted a threat to individual liberties, and that the president would eventually become king, and opposed the system of federal courts created by the constitution. They produced a large number of articles and speeches whose best and most influential collection is known as Anti-Federalist Papers in reference to the similar similar collection of federalist character Federalist Papers. In all the states the opposition to the constitution was strong, and in two states (North Carolina and Rhode Island) prevented the rectification and establishment of the new government, having to force practically its adhesion to the constitution.

Answer 2

They did not want to hand over power to a central government because they feared it due to Great Britain having so much power, they were afraid of thei rights being infringed