The proposed Constitution, therefore, is, in strictness, neither a national nor a federal Constitution, but a composition of both.

Question

—James Madison, the Federalist Paper 39

How does this quote from James Madison represent a response to Anti-Federalist concerns?
A.
Madison is arguing against the Anti-Federalist demand for a single national government.
B.
Madison is answering Anti-Federalist concerns over a centralized national government.
C.
Madison is debating the Anti-Federalist need for a democratic system of government.
D.
Madison is responding to Anti-Federalist's desire to include a Bill of Rights.

Answer 1

The correct answer is B. Madison is answering Anti-Federalist concerns over a centralized national government.

In this quote, Madison emphasizes that the proposed Constitution is a mix of both national and federal elements, which addresses the Anti-Federalist concerns about the potential for a too-powerful centralized national government. By framing it as a compromise, he seeks to reassure those who feared that a strong national government would threaten the rights and sovereignty of individual states.