The Federalist Papers

After the close of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787, the proposed constitution was printed in papers around the country. Essays began appearing in papers denouncing the plan, and the opposition (which was soon dubbed the Anti-Federalists by supporters of the constitution) soon focused on the lack of a bill of rights. On October 6, James Wilson (a strong supporter of the constitution and an ally of Madison at the convention) put forth a strong argument in support of the new constitution before a crowd gathered at the Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall). Wilson's arguments were denounced by the Anti-Federalists.

Alexander Hamilton believed that a strong defense of the constitution was required and that the plan must be defended in the press. James Madison joined with Hamilton and John Jay to craft one of the most remarkable pieces of political thought ever written by Americans. Writing under the pseudonym "Publius," the three men set out to defend the constitution. The first essay was published on October 27, 1787, in The Independent Journal in New York by Hamilton. By the end of the run, Hamilton had written 51 essays, Madison 29, and Jay 5. The first essay written by James Madison, Federalist #10, appeared in The Daily Advertise on November 22, 1787. In Federalist #38, published January 12, 1788, he discussed the situation found in America as that of a patient suffering from an illness. The patient has sought advice from a chosen gathering (the Constitutional Convention) and now receives advice from others (the Anti-Federalists) that to follow the recommendations would be fatal. His last contribution, Federalist #63, appeared in The Independent Journal on March 1, 1788.

The "Federalist Papers" have come to overshadow many of the essays written in defense of the constitution by supporters. The clarity of thought and comprehensive scope of the work sets it apart. However, it must be remembered that this work reflected the thinking of its authors, not the work of all the Founders. The arguments found in the "Federalist" resonate today in court opinions, legislative debate, and anywhere people are gathered to discuss the role of government in society.

Some examples of James Madison's "Federalist Papers" can be found below:

• Federalist Paper #10. The Utility of the Union as a Safeguard Against Domestic Faction and Insurrection (contd.)
• Federalist Paper #38. The Same Subject Continued, and the Incoherence of the Objects to the New Plan Exposed
• Federalist Paper #44. Restrictions on the Authority of the Several States
• Federalist Paper #51. The Structure of the Government Must Furnish the Proper Checks and Balances Between the Different Departments