The Federalist papers

1. The Constitutional Convention (1787): Delegates convened in Philadelphia to create a nation, though many were reluctant. Formal education varied among the delegates, but discourse revealed no significant differences.

2. Key Figures:

• Alexander Hamilton: Had an extreme plan for lifelong presidency but contributed incisive ideas.

• Youth and Age: More a young man’s achievement, ranging in ages from Jonathan Dayton (26) to Ben Franklin (81).

• George Washington: The central figure, often underestimated, embodying the new republic’s principles.

3. The Absence of Bill of Rights: Startling absence in the original document, leading to Madison’s drafting of the amendments that became the Bill of Rights.

4. The Federalist Papers:

• The Importance: These essays provided the philosophical background to the Constitution.

• The Authors: Hamilton, Madison, and Jay, with Madison earning praise for giving Americans their Constitution.

• Contrast with Other Treatises: Unlike other political treatises of the time, these arguments were an actual template for government.

5. Did We Get a Republic?

• Madison’s Definition: A republic derives power from the people but has historically been short-lived.

• Pure Democracies vs. the Right Republic: The balance between centralized government and individual state freedoms.

6. The Bill of Rights Debate:

• Was It Necessary? Convention of 1787 refused to incorporate it initially, as self-governing communities should decide their own rights.

7. Three Types of Government (Montesquieu): Despotism, Monarchy, and Republic, each requiring different cultural traits.

8. The Federalist Papers and Self-Governance: A unique chapter in history marked by direct and respectful address to the people, aiming for support through common sense and political understanding.