Federalist: The Gideon Edition » (GIDEON ED.)

Written in 1787 and 1788 by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison to promote the ratification of the proposed Constitution, these papers stand as perhaps the most eloquent testimonial to democracy that exists. They describe the ideas behind the American system of government: the separation of powers; the organization of Congress; the respective positions of the executive, legislative, and judiciary. Constituting one of the key texts of the American Revolution and the democratic system created in the wake of independence, The Federalist remains essential reading for anyone interested in politics and government, and indeed for anyone seeking a foundational statement about democracy in America.

Thomas Jefferson

The best commentary on the principles of government which was ever written.