The Federalist Papers

Alexander Hamilton (1757–1804) was a Founding Father, soldier, economist, political philosopher, one of America’s first constitutional lawyers, and the first United States Secretary of the Treasury. After serving in the Revolutionary War, he was elected to the Continental Congress, ultimately resigning to establish the Bank of New York. Hamilton was a main contributor to the influential Federalist Papers, a collection of essays written by himself, John Jay, and James Madison. He was mortally wounded in a famous duel with presidential candidate Aaron Burr.

John Jay (1745–1829) was a conservative lawyer who became a leading patriot. He served as minister to Spain, became the first chief justice of the United States Supreme Court, and negotiated the treaty of 1795 between the United States and Britain. His contributions to The Federalist Papers concern foreign affairs.

James Madison (1751–1836) was the fourth President of the United States and is known as the “father of the Constitution.” He was secretary of state under Jefferson; his main achievement in this role was the purchase of Louisiana from the French. He was elected president in 1809 and again in 1812. During his terms in office he worked to abolish slavery, to disestablish the Church, and to seek peace.

Michael Edwards is a playwright and director from Baltimore.