
Politics
The Federalist
10 lessons
6.5h total length
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Discover the enduring principles of good government and the impressive structure of the American Constitution.
Lessons in this course

31:29
lesson 1
Publius and The Federalist
Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay wrote The Federalist to urge ratification of the Constitution and teach the principles of good government.

38:25
lesson 2
The Anti-Federalists
The Anti-Federalists opposed ratification of the Constitution because they feared a large, centralized government. They lost the immediate debate but succeeded in securing a Bill of Rights.

24:52
lesson 3
The Extended Republic
Publius argues that the Constitution incorporates many improvements to the science of politics, including a larger territory from which to draw the best talents.

29:54
lesson 4
The Problem of Majority Faction
A faction is any group that pursues an interest opposed to the rights of citizens or the interest of the community. The causes of faction are sown into man’s nature. The extended republic and representation help prevent majority factions.

30:26
lesson 5
Human Nature in The Federalist
Publius recognizes that men are neither angels nor beasts. Man is “ambitious, vindictive, and rapacious,” but also is capable of sufficient virtue to make republican government possible.

24:52
lesson 6
The House of Representatives
The House of Representatives provides direct accountability to the people in the legislature.

27:49
lesson 7
Why the Articles of Confederation Failed
The Articles of Confederation were weak. The Constitution must provide sufficient power to the government and prevent it from abusing that power.

31:12
lesson 8
The Senate
The Senate provides stability to the government and accountability for the far-reaching effects of laws, which contribute to our national character in the eyes of foreign nations.

26:45
lesson 9
The President
The executive requires energy, efficiency, and dispatch to enforce the laws that are passed by the legislature.

30:02
lesson 10
The Courts and the Bill of Rights
The courts must be independent to decide particular cases without undue influence. The separation of powers is a safeguard against tyranny, but the security of a republic lies in the vigilance of the people.
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