Federalist Papers

The Federalist Papers, written as an argument for the U.S. Constitution, explain human nature, political power, and core principles often ignored by political leaders, courts, schools, and the media today—an ignorance that has led to the breakdown of our political systems and to an unchecked growth of government. The application of these principles to our current politics can unleash optimism and economic productivity, while limiting abuses of political power and protecting liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Yet, despite the current clamor for returning to the principles of the Constitution, few Americans have read this classic document, largely because its 18th-century style, as written by three lawyers, is unnatural for contemporary readers. This new edited version—using the authors’ original words and enhanced with outlines, subheadings, and hyperlinks—removes these obstacles and brings forth the argument, making the Federalist Papers easy-to-use and understand in the age of the e-book.

"In the aggregate, academic writers and jurists have cited the Federalist Papers as evidence of the original meaning of the Constitution more than any other historical source except the text of the Constitution itself."—Gregory E. Maggs, George Washington University Law School, in Boston University Law Review, 87.

"This book illuminates a very important part of our nation's history and strength. In the formative days of the country, we desperately needed a government that could cope with the much more powerful nations in Europe. This led to a proposed new constitution to strengthen our government that was vigorously opposed. The Federalist Papers were the principle reason why, after several close votes, our constitution was ratified."—Robert L. Saloschin, constitutional lawyer and 30-year veteran of the Office of Legal Counsel, Department of Justice.