Glossary

The Federalist Papers

A series of 85 essays from 1787-1788 by Hamilton, Madison and Jay urging ratification of the Constitution.

Also called: The Federalist, Federalist No. 10, Federalist No. 51, Federalist No. 78

The Federalist Papers are 85 essays published in New York newspapers between October 1787 and May 1788 under the pseudonym "Publius." Alexander Hamilton wrote most of them, James Madison wrote about a quarter and John Jay contributed a few. They were written to persuade New Yorkers to ratify the proposed Constitution.

The essays explain the Constitution's design and the reasoning behind it. Federalist No. 10 argues that a large republic can control the dangers of faction, No. 51 explains separation of powers and checks ("ambition must be made to counteract ambition"), No. 70 defends a strong single executive and No. 78 describes the judiciary as the "least dangerous" branch and defends judicial review. Other essays address taxation, defense and federalism.

Courts and scholars treat them as an authoritative, though not binding, guide to the Constitution's original meaning, and originalists cite them often. They were advocacy, not neutral records, and their authors later disagreed about some points. They were answered by the Anti-Federalists, whose concerns about central power shaped the Bill of Rights. Conservatives often turn to the essays for arguments about limited government.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Anti-Federalists Opponents of the 1787 Constitution who feared a powerful national government and demanded a bill of rights. Separation of powers The constitutional division of government into legislative, executive and judicial branches, each with its own distinct powers. Constitutional republic A system in which officials chosen by the people govern under a constitution that limits their power and protects rights. Judicial review The power of courts to strike down laws and government actions that conflict with the Constitution. Tyranny of the majority The danger that a democratic majority will use its power to override the rights and interests of minorities.