The Federalist Papers were written to persuade the public—especially in New York—to support the ratification of the newly proposed United States Constitution in 1787-1788. They aimed to build public and political support for the Constitution by explaining its principles, defending its framework, and addressing concerns about a stronger central government. The essays systematically argued for the need to replace the weaker Articles of Confederation with a federal system capable of providing order, common defense, and effective governance. Key authors were Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, who wrote under the pseudonym "Publius" to influence the ratification debates, particularly among skeptical states like New York.
The papers addressed issues like preventing majority faction domination, the separation of powers among government branches, the role of the judiciary, and the need for a strong executive. They also responded to Anti-Federalist critiques and helped shape the understanding of the Constitution’s intentions for future generations, becoming cornerstone texts in American political philosophy and constitutional interpretation.
