Anti-Federalists

Patrick Henry at the Virginia Ratifying Convention, June 12, 1788

May 31, 2017 Religious Freedom Archive

Patrick Henry June 12, 1788 During the debates over ratification of the Constitution, supporters argued that religion was protected because the document didn’t give Congress explicit powers to regular religion. Patrick Henry, a popular figure in Virginia, opposed the Constitution and stated that such an important right should be explicitly protected. Wherefore is religious liberty not secured? One honorable gentlemen, who favors adoption, said that he had had his fears on the subject. If I can well recollect, he informed…

Luther Martin Complains About Lack of Religious Test in Constitution (Genuine Information XII)

May 27, 2017 Religious Freedom Archive Comments 0 Comment

Luther Martin February 8, 1788 Although some praised the Constitution for banning religious tests for public office, others feared that it would lead to Pagans, Jews, and Muslims taking office and Catholicism becoming the official religion. Responses came from two leading federalists, James Spencer and James Iredell, who later became a Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. The part of the system, which provides that no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under…