The Federalists were a group of leaders who supported the ratification of the new U.S. Constitution. They believed a strong central government was necessary to maintain order and unity in the newly independent states.

Source A: Federalist Papers

'A strong government is essential to preserve the Union and secure our liberties.' Provenance: Selections from The Federalist Papers, written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, 1787-1788.

Source B: Federalist Argument 'The new Constitution provides a system of checks and balances that prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful.' Provenance: Excerpt from The Federalist Papers, 1788.

The support of Federalists led to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, which significantly changed the structure of government in America. It replaced the Articles of Confederation and created a federal system balancing state and national powers.

Source C: The Impact of Federalist Support

'The ratification of the Constitution established the framework for American government and paved the way for future constitutional amendments.' Provenance: Historical analysis by a modern historian, 2000.