The Federalist Papers is a collection of 85 articles and essays written (under the pseudonym Publius) by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay promoting the ratification of the United States Constitution. Seventy-seven were published serially in The Independent Journal and The New York Packet between October 1787 and August 1788. The collection's original title was The Federalist; the title The Federalist Papers did not emerge until the 20th century.

During the period covered by this volume, James Madison continued to deal with the United States' vexing relations with Europe. While firmly rejecting Britain's maritime policy in his Examination of the British Doctrine, published here for the first time with annotations, Madison actively promoted negotiations with the British government for an amicable settlement of these matters.

The Federalist Papers were written and published during the years 1787 and 1788 in several New York State newspapers to persuade New York voters to ratify the proposed constitution. In total, the Federalist Papers consist of 85 essays outlining how this new government would operate and why this type of government was the best choice for the United States of America. All of the essays were signed "PUBLIUS" and the actual authors of some are under dispute, but the general consensus is that Alexander Hamilton wrote 52, James Madison wrote 28, and John Jay contributed the remaining five.

Written in 1787-1788, this collection of essays and articles written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison under the pseudonym Publius promotes the ratification of the United States Constitution. These documents offer an extraordinary insight into the birth of the Unites States and are often referenced today as a window into the intentions of the authors of the Constitution. The Federalist Papers are a unique and fascinating view into this most remarkable period in American history.