Doctoral candidate Jonathan A. Hanna, Claremont Graduate University, explores the intellectual underpinnings of Maryland’s Federalists and their drive to ratify the new nation’s Constitution. Many state leaders in Maryland and throughout the new nation, known as Anti-Federalists, feared a strong federal government that would limit powers granted to the states. This is a timely presentation amidst current debates on interpreting the “letter” versus the “spirit” of the law.