The Federalist Papers
Learn the meaning of "Original Intent."
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The Federalist Papers is a compilation of 85 essays that were written during the years 1787 and 1788 and published in several New York State newspapers to persuade New York voters to ratify the proposed constitution. All of the essays were signed "PUBLIUS" and the actual authors of some are under dispute, however the general consensus is that Alexander Hamilton wrote 52, James Madison wrote 28 and John Jay contributed the remaining 5.
To understand the Constitution, you must understand the "original intent" of our founding fathers. The Federalist Papers not only provide an insight into what our founding fathers were thinking when they created the Constitution, but they address the concerns of the people who had to vote to ratify the Constitution. But most importantly, they demonstrate how the courts, that are charged with insuring that the Constitution is not subverted, have themselves, intentionally misinterpreted the "original intent" of the Constitution.
We had initially planned to create our own interface to the Federalist Papers. However, since the Thomas Register has improved their version, we have decided to just provide a link to their site.
View the Federalist Papers here. (A new window will open.)