What was the main argument of the Federalists during the ratification debates?

The main argument of the Federalists during the ratification debates centered around the need for a strong central government and defense of the new Constitution. They believed that a stronger federal government was necessary to maintain order, ensure national security, and provide effective governance. The existing Articles of Confederation had demonstrated the weaknesses of a loose confederation of states, particularly in terms of economic instability and lack of centralized authority to enforce laws or regulate commerce.

Federalists advocated for the ratification of the Constitution as a framework that could effectively balance power between the federal government and the states, while also incorporating mechanisms like checks and balances to prevent tyranny. Prominent figures such as Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote the Federalist Papers, articulating these arguments and addressing concerns raised by their opponents, known as the Anti-Federalists, who feared too much central power and the potential loss of individual liberties.