Who were some of the first federalists and what did they believe?

Some of the first Federalists included prominent figures such as Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, and John Jay. These individuals were instrumental in the founding of the United States and played pivotal roles in the early political landscape. The Federalists believed in a strong central government that would have the authority to effectively manage the country's fiscal and diplomatic affairs. They argued that such a government was necessary to ensure the survival and prosperity of the new nation.

Federalists were also ardent supporters of the ratification of the new U.S. Constitution, which had been drafted in 1787. They saw the Constitution as a way to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, the original governing document that had proven ineffective at unifying the states into a cohesive nation. The Federalists argued that the Constitution would create a balance between state and federal powers, though the federal government would be supreme in matters that affected the nation as a whole.

Additionally, Federalists favored a diversified, mercantile economy and believed in fostering good relations with Great Britain for trade reasons. They supported financial policies put forth by Alexander Hamilton, which included the establishment of a national bank, assumption of state debts by the federal government, and the promotion of manufacturing over agriculture.