Founding Documents
The Federalist Papers
Explore the essays that helped shape the foundation of the U.S. Constitution: why they were written, what they argued, and how they still influence our democracy.
What Are the Federalist Papers?
The Federalist Papers are a collection of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay in 1787 and 1788. Their goal was to persuade the American public to support the newly proposed U.S. Constitution.
- Federalist No. 10: Argues that a large republic helps control factions and protects minority rights.
- Federalist No. 51: Outlines the need for separation of powers and checks and balances within government.
- Federalist No. 78: Defends an independent judiciary and lifetime appointments for federal judges.
- Legacy: These essays remain foundational for constitutional scholars and students of democracy worldwide.