Question

The federalists or anti-federalists believed in a loose construction of the Constitution?

Answer 1

The Federalists supported a loose interpretation of the Constitution's power--implied powers. They wanted to interpret the constitution based on what was needed at the time. Ani-federalists wanted a more strict interpretation of the Constitution, meaning that they would not do anything unless the Constitution specifically said it.

Answer 2

The correct answer is Federalists.

After the passing of the US Constitution at the Constitutional Convention, conflict continued between Federalists and Anti-Federalists. Federalists, on one hand, wanted a loose interpretation of the Constitution. This means that just because a power is not specifically given to the federal government, it does not limit the federal government from taking that action. A perfect example of this would be the Louisiana Purchase.

However, Anti-Federalists felt that a loose interpretation of the US Constitution would give the federal government too much power. This is why Anti-Federalists were in favor of  a strict interpretation of the US Constitution.