Ratification Debates · 1787–1788
The four central disputes of ratification — argued again, in full, grounded in their actual writings. Choose a topic and watch Hamilton, Madison, and Jay answer Brutus, Cato, and the Federal Farmer.
Choose a Debate Topic
Debate I
Madison argues the extended republic controls faction; Brutus argues it guarantees consolidation and tyranny.
Federalist No. 10 vs Brutus Essay I
Debate II
Hamilton defends a single energetic executive; Cato warns it is a monarchy in waiting.
Federalist No. 70 vs Cato Letter IV
Debate III
Madison's compound republic vs. the Federal Farmer's demand for more deliberation and stronger state power.
Federalist No. 51 vs Federal Farmer Letter I
Debate IV
Hamilton argues the Constitution IS a bill of rights; Brutus and the Federal Farmer insist without explicit guarantees, liberty is at risk.
Federalist No. 84 vs Brutus II · Federal Farmer II