The Federalist Papers

Mission Brief #18

🎯 Your mission

Decide what YOU would do in their shoes.

⚡ The twist

A 'fair rule' for one group can be unfair for another.

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The Federalist Papers were a series of 85 articles written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay in the late 1780s. Their purpose was to persuade the people of New York to support the new Constitution.

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These essays explained the need for a strong central government and discussed how it would protect the rights of citizens while maintaining order. They played a crucial role in shaping American political thought and helped ensure the Constitution was ratified.

Key facts

Remember these

1The Federalist Papers were published between 1787 and 1788.
2They were written to encourage the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
3Alexander Hamilton wrote the most essays, totaling 51 out of 85.

Timeline

When it happened

1787
October: Federalist No. 1 is published in New York
1787
November: Madison's Federalist No. 10 warns against factions
1788
February: Federalist No. 51 explains checks and balances
1788
June: New Hampshire's ratification makes the Constitution law

Then & Now

🏛️ Knowing this makes you a better voter when you grow up.

Mind = blown

Without its amendments, the U.S. Constitution is only about 4,500 words long.

Question 1 of 2

What was the purpose of The Federalist Papers?

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Question 2 of 2

Who were the main authors of The Federalist Papers?

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