Books That Matter: The Federalist Papers

Despite their lack of official or legal status, it would be difficult to overstate the influence of The Federalist Papers. These 85 brilliant essays have served as the single most important guide to the interpretation and application of the United States Constitution for more than 230 years. Authored by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, The Federalist Papers offer a detailed blueprint for building a successful democratic republic, investigating such topics as: 1) The danger that factions posed in a representative democracy; 2) The balance of power between the federal government and the states (“dual sovereignty”); The way a bicameral legislature would prevent the rise of tyranny; and The roles of the president and the federal judiciary.