- Leaders of the new nation favored a republic because the people place the power in the hands of capable leaders
- Definitions of a republic
o People place good of nation over self-interest
o Based on self – interest
- Each state had made up its
own government after the revolution
o Each limited the power of its leaders
o Guaranteed specific rights of its citizens
o Emphasis on liberty over equality
o Reflected a fear of centralized authority
- Definition of a Republic: system of government in which people elect representative to act on their behalf