In Our Time cover image

The Federalist Papers

In Our Time

NOTE

Influence, Importance, and Controversies of the Federalist Papers

Judicial review is a key principle in American political life and the Supreme Court's power to declare a law unconstitutional is not actually in the Constitution. The Federalist Papers, particularly Federalist 78, play a major role in Supreme Court decision-making. The panel agrees that the Federalist Papers are America's greatest contribution to political thought. The papers were written by political practitioners and are elegantly written, making them influential and enduring. The musical Hamilton also references the Federalist Papers. The discussion touches on the challenges states faced in their relationships with one another, including warfare and tariffs. The Framers, with the support of the Federalist Papers, created a nation where one didn't previously exist. The conversation briefly mentions slavery and Native Americans, highlighting the importance of land in Madison's vision of Republican democracy.

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