Introduction to the Federalist Papers

Alexander Hamilton, fearing defeat in the State of New York, enlisted the aid of James Madison and John Jay in writing articles in support of the proposed Constitution. This series of articles, signed "Publius," became known as The Federalist or Federalist Papers. In Madison's words:

"The papers under the title of "Federalist" and signature of 'Publius' were written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, in the latter part of the year 1787 and the former part of the year 1788. The immediate object of them was to vindicate and recommend the new Constitution to the State of New York, whose ratification of the instrument was doubtful, as well as important. The undertaking was proposed by A. Hamilton (who had probably consulted Mr. Jay and others) to J. M., who agreed to take a part in it. The papers were originally addressed to the people of N. York, under the signature of a "Citizen of New York." This was changed for that of "Publius," the first name of Valerius Publicola. The reason for the change was, that one of the writers was not a citizen of that State; another that the publication had diffused itself among most of the other States, The papers were first published at New York in a newspaper printed by Francis Childs, at the rate, during great part of the time, at least, of four numbers a week; and notwithstanding that exertion, they were not compleated till a large proportion of the States had decided upon the Constitution." James Madison, Letter to James K. Paulding, July 24, 1818

These articles were written hurriedly, and some are deservedly ignored today. However, they were written by men who had thought and read extensively on government, and many of the articles are still widely read and are critical to our understanding of American government. The Constitution is a brief document: it does not carry its own explanation or justification. To take a very simple example: Representatives are elected for two year and Senators six, but the Constitution does not explain why. The Federalist Papers filled this gap and provided, and still provide, the essential explication, explanation and justification of the Constitution.

Two of the Federalist Papers are generally regarded as the most important today. These are Number 10 in which Madison presents a compelling argument for a large republic and Number 51 which presents the case for the separation of powers.