The Federalist: A Collection of Essays, Written in Favour of the New Constitution

The Federalist: A Collection of Essays, Written in Favour of the New Constitution
Vol. 1 and 2
New-York: Printed and sold by J. and A. M’Lean, 1788
Nettie Hale Rand Collection of Fine Bindings and Printing

The Federalist Papers were written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay using the pseudonym “Publius.” They consist of 85 articles and essays and were written to promote the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. The first 77 essays were published in the serial the Independent Journal and the Daily Advertiser from October 1787 to April 1788.

Alexander Hamilton wrote 51 essays that provided foundational arguments on the judicial and executive branches, as well as on taxation and military powers. James Madison wrote 29 of the essays, focusing on the workings of a republican government, the checks and balances of power, and preventing the recurrence of tyranny in America. John Jay, who became ill during this period, wrote 5 essays primarily on foreign relations, treaties, and the importance of creating a single American identity.