The Federalist Papers

by Alexander Hamilton

Overview

This seminal collection, written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the pseudonym 'Publius, ' was a crucial element in the ratification of the United States Constitution. The essays offer profound insights into the motivations and fears of the Founding Fathers, providing readers with a rare glimpse into the intellectual framework that underpins the U.S. political system.

The book brilliantly positions the need for a strong, yet balanced federal government against the backdrop of post-Revolutionary War America, a time rife with political uncertainty and division. Through persuasive arguments, the authors address concerns about federal power, illuminating the complexities of designing a government that remains both empowered and in check. The thematic richness of these essays extends to discussions on liberty, governance, and human nature, making them timeless in their relevance.

"The Federalist Papers" is more than a historical document; it is a profound exploration of governance and human nature. Its enduring significance lies in its ability to provoke thought about the principles and challenges of democratic government.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781396325120
Publisher:	Left of Brain Books
Publication date:	02/23/2024
Pages:	514
Sales rank:	189,934
Product dimensions:	5.25(w) x 8.00(h) x 1.40(d)

About the Author

Alexander Hamilton was born in 1757 on the island of Nevis, in the Leeward group, British West Indies. During the Revolutionary War, he joined the staff of General Washington as secretary and aide-de-camp and soon became his close confidant as well. Hamilton was elected to the Continental Congress in 1782-83. Hamilton's part in New York's ratification of the Constitution the next year was substantial, though he felt it was deficient in many respects. Against determined opposition, he collaborated with John Jay and James Madison in writing The Federalist Papers.

James Madison, born March 16, 1751, the first of ten children born to a slave owning family in Orange County, Virginia. He grew up to be an impassioned opponent of established religion and advocate of what was then called freedom of conscience. In 1779, Madison was selected to represent Virginia in the Continental Congress and was the youngest member. Madison was highly instrumental in the convening of the Constitutional Convention; he played a key part in guiding the Constitution through the Continental Congress. In 1809, Madison became the fourth President of the United States.

John Jay (1745-1829) was an American statesman and first Chief Justice of the United States. he was born in New York City and graduated from Columbia University in 1764. In pre-Revolutionary activities he reflected the views of the conservative colonial merchant, opposing British actions but not favoring independence. Once the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed, however, he energetically supported the patriot cause. He contributed five papers to The Federalist, dealing chiefly with the Constitution in relation to foreign affairs.

Read an Excerpt

The Federalist No. 1: Hamilton
(Continues…)

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Excerpted from "The Federalist Papers"
by .
Copyright © 2012 Alexander Hamilton.
Excerpted by permission of Penguin Publishing Group.
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.

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Table of Contents

	Introduction	vii
	Chronology of the Lives of Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay	xxi
	Historical Context of The Federalist Papers	xxv
	The Federalist	1
	The Constitution of the United States	631
	Notes	658
	Interpretive Notes	677
	Critical Excerpts	684
	Questions for Discussion	699
	Suggestions for the Interested Reader	701
	Index	703

Editorial Reviews

In 1787 and 1788, these articles argued, with great clarity and prescience, for the ratification of the Constitution and for a strong federal government.”

Audiofile

In 1787 and 1788, these articles argued, with great clarity and prescience, for the ratification of the Constitution and for a strong federal government—an issue debated in blood in the 1860s and still being debated today. Arthur Morey’s voice sounds a bit weak and strained—though he’s a precise and nimble reader, enunciating well and giving the sometimes difficult sentences emphasis and intonation that help convey their meaning. His reading might actually make the text more understandable except that—given the complex, formal language—it goes a bit too fast. Listeners not familiar with the Papers or with writing of the period may miss quite a bit and be left unsatisfied by an otherwise able reading of a difficult text. W.M. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine

JUNE 2011 - AudioFile