In school we heard so much of the Federalist Papers. What of the Anti-Federalists, who were far more prolific - and prescient?
Eric reads from the book "The Anti-Federalists," edited by Bruce Frohnen, and forwarded by Joseph Sobran.
Cato, believed by many to be New York Governor George Clinton, a prominent Anti-Federalist, wrote letters that appeared in the New York Journal in late 1787 through early 1788. His pseudonym was borrowed from Marcus Portius Cato, a Roman statesman, speaker, and defender of the Roman Republic.
Cato's letters, although not considered by historians to be the most eloquently argued or logically presented Anti-Federalist missives, capture well the sentiments of those warning against the new Constitution.
Cato warns that that same Constitution will allow avarice to grow unchecked; that it will provide unbridled opportunities for the moneyed elites to deceive and subjugate the people. Cato avers that the gritty, painful struggle to loosen Britain's hold on the Colonies was very costly and should be prized.
In his brief Letter No. 1, Cato urges his fellow citizens to keep fresh their memories of their bloody conflict. He implores them to not hurry their decisions regarding a new government. He asks them: Will they act cautiously and ensure a safe and secure future for themselves?
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