Alexander Hamilton's "Federalist 16" and "Federalist 17" and James Madison's "Federalist 39"

Select and read one of Alexander Hamilton's Federalist Papers (16 or 17). In both of these essays, Hamilton argues the need for a strong national government to unify the country, and seeks to address concerns that the proposed Constitution will lead to tyranny.

Also read James Madison's Federalist 39, which strikes a more conciliatory tone towards the federal aspects of the government (Hamilton only expounds on the national aspects). Madison believes that only a republican form of government can carry forward the principles of the Revolution and demonstrate that self-government is both possible and practical.

Click http://www.foundingfathers.info/federalistpapers/fedindex.htm link to open resource.